Press Release
Published on October 26, 2016
Washington, D.C.– Today Human Rights First, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, and American University are hosting Ambassador Susan Rice, President Obama’s National Security Advisor, for remarks on protecting and promoting the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people around the world. The event is being held at American University’s School of International Service.
As the United Nations Ambassador and National Security Advisor, Ambassador Rice has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure basic rights and safety for LGBTQ people globally. She will discuss the Obama Administration’s legacy of leadership on equality, the vital role it plays in America’s national security and the need for continued effort to secure LGBTQ human rights abroad. Following her remarks, Ambassador Rice will participate in a brief moderated discussion with James Goldgeier, Dean of American University School of International Service.
“Our nation is stronger and more secure when the rights and dignity of all people are respected,” said Human Rights First’s President and CEO Elisa Massimino. “Thanks to the vision and persistence of the Obama Administration—and of Ambassador Rice in particular—courageous activists around the world seeking to promote the rights and equality of LGBT people know that America stands with them in their struggle.”
“Over the last eight years, the Obama administration has made protecting the rights of LGBTQ people a pillar of American foreign policy,” said HRC President Chad Griffin. “As a central figure on the world stage throughout the Obama Administration, Ambassador Rice has been a steadfast advocate for the human rights of LGBTQ people. And because of her leadership, our world is a safer and more secure place not only for countless LGBTQ people, but for all people. We must ensure this life-saving work continues in future administrations.”
“We are honored to have Ambassador Rice visit SIS. Part of our promise to our students is that we will prepare them to build understanding in our world. Hosting national and global leaders here, particularly to speak directly about human rights for LGBTQ citizens, helps fulfill that promise. I’m eager to hear what she has to say,” said James Goldgeier, Dean of American University’s School of International Service.
Prior to Ambassador Rice’s address, Goldgeier, Griffin, and Massimino will deliver brief remarks.
Since taking office, President Obama and his administration have made advancing the human rights of LGBTQ people a central pillar of U.S. foreign policy. In 2011, the White House issued a memorandum incorporating LGBTQ human rights as part of our nation’s foreign policy objectives. That same year, Ambassador Rice played a vital part in the adoption of a historic resolution by the United Nations Human Rights Council focusing on sexual orientation and gender identity. The United States has consistently used its powerful platform to condemn anti-LGBTQ laws passed in countries like Uganda and Russia. These actions, among others, provide an important layer of support and protection for the global LGBTQ community and underscore the continued need for U.S. global leadership on behalf of LGBTQ people and their families.
The event will begin at 3 PM and can be viewed via live-stream available here and on social media under the hashtag #GlobalEquality. Media interested in attending today’s event, please RSVP with press@hrc.org. Broadcast media should arrive by 2:15 p.m. Other media should arrive no later than 2:40 p.m. For transportation and parking information, please go to: http://www.american.edu/sis/about/directions.cfm
