HRC QUARTERLY STAFF Moving Ahead with Historically Black Colleges on GLBT Equality Kim I

POLITICAL NEWS FOR GLBT AMERICA HRCQUARTERLY

BUILDING EQUALITY

HRC’S NEW HOME TAKES SHAPE

KERRY SPEAKS • PRIDE IQ • LANDRIEU’S WIN • ON CAMPUS SPRING 2003

HRC inside QUARTERLY On the March ...... 6 HRC SENIOR STAFF HRC volunteers take to the streets in annual pride parades Elizabeth Birch Executive Director COVER STORY: HRC’s Home Base ...... 7 Harvey Hurdle Chief Operating Officer Headquarters building takes shape Jacquelyn J. Bennett Administration Director Beyond Majority Rule ...... 10 Seth Kilbourn New Congress poses challenges for advancing GLBT equality National Field Director Kevin Layton The Cost of Being Gay ...... 13 General Counsel Inequities abound under Social Security system and Legal Director Kim I. Mills Education Director Q&A with Mary Landrieu ...... 15 Cathy Nelson Her triumph, gay allies, what’s ahead Development Director Jeff Sachse Eyes on the White House ...... 16 Capital Campaign President Kerry seeks to build on strong civil rights record in Senate David M. Smith Communications Director Professional Opinions ...... 17 and Senior Strategist Key groups voice support for gay parenting Christopher Speron Capital Campaign Director Local Heroes ...... 18 Winnie Stachelberg Political Director Groups keep up state and local pressure Russell Vert Finance Director Campus Crusade ...... 20 HRC QUARTERLY STAFF Moving ahead with historically black colleges on GLBT equality Kim I. Mills Executive Editor Bells Are Ringing ...... 21 Janice Hughes Young activists go door to door for equality Managing Editor James A. Decker Equality Boutique ...... 23 Publications Coordinator Merchandise program about much more than selling Jennie Smith Editorial Coordinator International Affairs ...... 24 CONTRIBUTORS Some countries surpass U.S. on gay issues Tim Bresnahan, Brandon Braud, Alice Budisatrijo, Frank Butler, Kevin Connell, Michael Crawford, Jill Eynon, Collin Foulds, Jordan Kilby, Kristina Petronko DESIGN OmniStudio Inc. COVER Taran Z DEPARTMENTS TO JOIN HRC, PLEASE CALL 800/777-HRC3 PHOTO:CRAWFORDMICHAEL TTY: 202/216-1572 InBox ...... 3 OR VISIT WWW.HRC.ORG UpFront ...... 4 HRC Quarterly is a publication of the Human Rights Pride & Prejudice ...... 28 Campaign and the Human Rights Campaign Founda- tion. HRC Quarterly (ISSN 1092-5791) is published Events ...... 28 quarterly by HRC, 919 18th St., N.W., Ste. 800, Wash- ington, D.C. 20006. Copyright 2003, HRC Quarterly. All Revved Up! All rights reserved. Subscription rates: free to membership. Printed in the USA. HRC’s Brandon Braud (R) and friends at Atlanta Black Pride. See p. 6. The Human Rights Campaign and HRC Foundation names and Equality logos are trademarks of the Human Rights Campaign and HRC Foundation. SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gwen Baba CA, Joe Barrows CO, Terry Bean OR, Michael Berman DC, Tammara Billik CA, Timothy Boggs DC, Mary Breslauer MA, Tom Buche CO, Philip Burgess IL, Dennis Coleman TX, Stampp Corbin OH, Rebecca Covell TX, Lawrie Demorest GA, Amy Errett CA, Julia Fitz-Randolph CO (ex-officio), Mark French MN, Emily Giske NY, Mitchell Gold NC, Stephanie Hart NY, Mary Jo Hudson OH, Barry Karas CA, Marty Lieberman WA, Andy Linsky CA, Candy Marcum TX, from the editor David Medina DC, David Muck TX, Lucilo Peña TX, letter Dana Perlman CA, Trevor Potter DC, Victoria Raymont IL, Karla Rikansrud CO, George Rosenfield CA, Abby Rubenfeld TN, Judy Shepard WY, Mary Snider DC, RC’s headquarters building is taking shape. As I write this, construction Andrew Tobias FL, Tony Varona NY Hcrews are laying cables, drywalling and working furiously to complete BOARD OF GOVERNORS the renovation of our beautiful new home. What seemed an unattainable Michael Abrams IL, Ann Adams IL, Patrick Adams CA, dream so many years ago is soon to be reality. In this issue of HRC Quarterly, Matthew Bacon IL, Desi Bailey WA, Claire Baker TX, Alan Becker CO, David Beckwith CA, Les Bendtsen MN, we bring you scenes from a building. We hope you find these images inspir- Tracy Benson IL, Kelly Bliss TN, Elspeth Bloodgood OK, ing because our capital campaign continues to need your help! Bob Brandt MN, Kenneth Britt GA, Natalie Butto FL, Thomas Chaderjian IL, Bruce Chemel TX, Richard Also in this issue, we focus on our work at the grassroots as Senior Field Chizmadia MI, Christina Cobb MA, Dennis Coleman Organizer Sally Green looks at the past successes and future plans for HRC’s TX, Kathy Copelin PA, Kim Cromwell MA, Bryan Curtis TN, Catherine D’Amato MA, Jay Dascenzo OH, Equality Fund grant program. Going global, Liz Seaton, senior staff counsel, Scott Dixon GA, Timothy Downing OH, Tom Dreher compares and contrasts marriage laws around the world with the situation in CA, Fran Dunaway WA, Clint Eddy WA, Don Epstein the United States while guest columnist Michael Heflin of Amnesty Interna- MN, Anne Fay TX, Glen Paul Freedman GA, Jody Gates LA, Stephen Gilhooly TX, David Gillespie GA, tional describes some of the horrific conditions under which our GLBT sisters Ronald Ginsburg DC, Randy Glass CA, Stephen Gold- and brothers live, and die, in other countries. berg TX, Kelley Green MO, David Greer DC, Rodney Grozier IL, Carolyn Hall TX, Jacqueline Hammond Lisa Bennett, deputy director for HRC FamilyNet, looks at some of the OH, Gwen Hare PA, Jay Harter OR, Sandra Hartness remarkable policy statements coming from prestigious professional organiza- CA, Patrick Herning CA, Stella Hess TX, Pamela Holder TX, Ernest Horne MI, John Isa DC, Harry Jackson OH, tions in support of our families — even as we provide a snapshot of the Bob Jakosh CA, Julie Johnson TX, Jeff Jones OH, inequities under the Social Security program. Kathleen Kennedy VA, Russ Klettke IL, Wayne Kreuscher IN, Brian Kutinsky MI, Kirk Lamoreaux NY, Michael J. On the political front, Senior Policy Advocate Tracey St. Pierre lays out the Lappin GA, Barbara Lund MN, Cynthia Mack VA, Joni challenges we face in the 108th Congress, Political Director Winnie Stachel- Madison NC, Thomas Maynard IN, Julia McDevitt berg has a candid conversation with Louisiana Democratic Sen. Mary Lan- OH, Todd McKinley CO, Lynette Molnar MA, Erin Moore TX, Phillip Moore OH, Richard Myracle NC, drieu, and Mark Shields, communications associate director, profiles Barb Neligan TN, Ken Oakes PA, Jay Oppenheimer TX, Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. John Kerry of Massachusetts. Michael Palmer DC, Paul Palmer FL, Terrence Penrod OH, Philip Pessin IL, Shannon Pierce MN, David You may have picked up this issue of HRC Quarterly at a GLBT pride cel- Posteraro OH, Kevin Powers, MA, Trisha Pray IL, Sabri- ebration. If so, we hope that you met some of our staff or loyal volunteers, that na Riddle CA, Karla Rikansrud CO, Robert Ripley LA, Henry Robin NY, Arthur Roger LA, Henry Rosales CO, you’ll take our pride IQ test, and — if you’re not already a member – that Daniel Salera MA, Rebecca Schiff MA, Carl Schmid you’ll join the Human Rights Campaign. DC, Timothy Schneider MN, D. Heidi Schulz WA, Mark Seib GA, Alan Semonian MI, Richard Silver CA, As always, we welcome your feedback. Sheryl Smith CA, Staci Smith CA, Michael Spann TX, Jill Stauffer MA, Dalia Stokes TX, John Sullivan MN, Rebecca Tillet NY, George Tomczyk NJ, Dean Trantalis FL, Ted Trimpa CO, Dawn Tritaik MD, Teresa Tuschhoff MO, Alan Uphold CA, Eric Vanderpool CA, Kammie Vasagam DC, Janis Verruso MN, Kay Wagner CO, Mark Walsh MA, Thomas Webber MA, Cheryl Ann Welsh NC, Bradley White CA, David White FL, Kim I. Mills Scott Wiener CA, Ed Wierman MA, Lynne Wiggins DC, Cynthia Wilsky GA, Frank Woo CA, Craig Executive Editor Zodikoff CA [email protected] HRC FOUNDATION BOARD Gwen Baba CA, Vic Basile DC, Terry Bean OR, Edith Dee Cofrin GA, Lawrie Demorest GA, Harry Jackson OH, Marty Lieberman IL, Candy Marcum TX, Hilary Rosen DC, Worth Ross TX, Andrea Sharrin DC

2 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY inbox

A Kinder, Gentler HRC? means also believing that couples — HRC Aiming High I just wanted to say that I’m very regardless of sexual orientation — need I am a lesbian serving in the U.S. Air impressed with the new content on the not be married to maintain a relationship Force abroad. I just saw an HRC public HRC website. It’s great to see so much of lifelong commitment. This treatment service announcement on the Armed information on issues that reach beyond by health insurance companies is also Forces Network. I’m impressed, amazed the Beltway and into the lives of everyday unfair and deserves equal treatment. and above all thankful. Your efforts to LGBT folks. It’s also great to see you cov- C. M. educate the military audience are er diverse topics that I haven’t traditional- incredibly necessary. Editor’s reply: According to data compiled by ly associated with HRC, like aging and HRC WorkNet, approximately two-thirds of With much gratitude, transgender issues. Is this a sign of a the employers that offer domestic partner Anonymous kinder, gentler HRC? health insurance offer it to opposite- and For information on military issues, visit David Mariner same-sex partners. We suggest you approach www.hrc.org/documentingcourage. Washington, D.C. your employer with facts and statistics you I first joined your organization back in can find at www.hrc.org/worknet and the early ’90s. I didn’t renew my member- make a business case for changing carriers. ship because I felt you were ignoring Good luck! transgender issues. Now that is no longer the case and I am happy to support you Dads in Limbo once again. I have four kids and a partner of two Gloria Eskew years, but my partner has not been able Long Beach, Calif. to meet my children. The judge, at my ex-wife’s urging, felt that would be best Editor’s reply: HRC added gender identity for the kids. But this situation has put an and expression to its mission statement in enormous strain on my relationship with 2001, responding to our members and my partner. I just want him to meet the reflecting years of work on these issues. We kids I love so much. HRC FamilyNet EQUALITY SIGHTING! continue to be gratified by the positive sent us some resources and my lawyer Becky Dinwoodie Flynn, left, responses we receive as our efforts in this area filed them to use in future cases like and Sharon Flynn make a vow grow and intensify. ours. Thank you. I can only hope that for equality in Provincetown, they help the state of South Carolina to All Partners Deserve Parity see that we are people, too — with feel- Mass., at their commitment cer- I read “ Health Insurance: A Taxing ings just like the next family. Not to emony. Congratulations! Benefit for Domestic Partners” in the mention that we also pay taxes just like Have you spotted an HRC Equality logo in an unusual Winter 2002 HRC Quarterly. While the the next family. place? Send photos of them our way! If your photo is article was very poignant and brought up A Dad Waiting for His Rights selected, we’ll send you a free HRC T-shirt. Send to HRC issues that demand attention, it’s impor- South Carolina Quarterly, 919 18th St., N.W., Ste. 800, Washington, tant to note that many insurance compa- D.C. 20006. nies — including my own — support Editor’s note: For more information on health benefits for same-sex domestic GLBT families, visit www.hrc.org/ Correction: In the fall HRC Quarterly, an article enti- familynet. tled “ Transforming The Public Debate: Transgender partners but not opposite-sex domestic Activists Post Huge Wins at the Local Level” should have partners. Believing in equality for all included Free State Justice, Maryland’s statewide GLBT group, as the sponsor of the lobby training in Baltimore for

PHOTO: PHOTO: JENNIFER GUNN transgender activists.

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 3 upfront news from washington and the nation

Cracker Barrel Cracks, Lockheed Unlocks Shareholder activists have racked up some impressive victories for lesbian and gay employees in HUMPHRIES PHOTO: MARILYN recent months. In December, Lockheed Martin Corp. told workers it would add sexual orientation to its non-discrimination policy, mere months after students at Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania TransForum Despite the worst cold snap in mounted a shareholder initiative seeking the Boston since the 1880s, more than 100 people change. Lockheed — which received a zero on the attended a Human Rights Campaign-sponsored Human Rights Campaign’s 2002 Corporate Equal-

town hall meeting on transgender issues in ity Index — also announced it would implement

January. Speakers included: (L-R) Diego Sanchez, domestic partner benefits starting in January 2003. In late November, the board of directors of JRI TransHealth and Education Development CBRL Inc., the parent company of Cracker Barrel Program; Grace Sterling-Stowell, Boston-Area Gay Country Stores, voted to add sexual orientation to and Lesbian Youth; Gunner Scott, Massachusetts its policy. The unanimous ballot came on the heels Transgender Political Coalition; Jennifer Levi, Gay of the annual shareholder meeting where a resolu- & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders; David Smith, tion asking the company for such a policy change

HRC; and Mara Kiesling, National Center for stood to garner some 58 percent of the vote. The change ended a decade-long struggle that began Transgender Equality. when Cracker Barrel issued a policy of firing employees who failed to “demonstrate normal heterosexual values.” And in January, New York City Comptroller On the Front Line Former William C. Thompson Jr. announced that the city’s National Football League pension systems were sponsoring first-time resolu- defensive lineman Esera tions calling for shareholder votes on non-discrimi- Tuaolo signed autographs nation policies at eight Fortune 500 companies. One of the companies, Dynegy Inc., changed its for Human Rights Campaign policy within days of the city’s announcement. fans during a visit to its offices In the meantime, New York is the lead filer of a to discuss the challenges of resolution asking Exxon Mobil Corp. to add sexu- coming out in the al orientation to its non-discrimination policy for professional sports the fifth year in a row. Once again, the HRC Foun- leagues. HRC has dation is a co-filer of that measure. “ ExxonMobil urged NFL officials remains one of the last and most stubborn hold- outs on this issue,” said Kim I. Mills, HRC’s edu- to address the cation director, who has led the organization’s problem and efforts around this company. “ ExxonMobil is continues to clinging to antiquated business practices that are monitor the detrimental to employee morale and the company’s

situation. bottom line.” PHOTO: ALICE BUDISATRIJO

4 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY by the Start Spreading the News HRC New York activists set off fireworks in the skies above Albany NUMBERS Jan. 16 to celebrate the first day of the state’s new law barring discrimination based on sexual orientation in the public and private sectors. A month earlier, Republican Gov. George Pataki signed the bill, making New York the 13th state to outlaw such dis- 1,000 crimination — after decades of hard work led by the statewide Citations of the Human Rights Campaign advocacy group. Empire State Pride Agenda spent years in news articles in 2002 mobilizing the community to educate New York state elected officials on both sides of the aisle about the inci- dents of discrimination faced daily by gay men and lesbians, said HRC National Field Director Seth Kilbourn. 500,000 A key remaining challenge will be to bar discrimination HRC members based on gender identity. “ ESPA is committed to full equality for the entire GLBT community, and HRC stands ready to support their efforts,” he said. 100 Full-time HRC employees In the Spirit of Health The national lesbian health organi- is known about our health status and 1 million zation Mautner Project is conducting health needs. The Spirit Study is an Monthly page views of www.hrc.org the first comprehensive study of important step toward bridging that black lesbian health. Led by Mautner knowledge gap.” Project Research Director Cheryl The study is recruiting black Pearson-Fields, the groundbreaking lesbians nationally through publica- 20,000 “ Spirit Study” is being designed, tions, newsletters, community groups, Spanish-language Resource Guides to Com- implemented and evaluated by black churches and Internet sites, as well ing Out given away in the last 16 months lesbians, in partnership with national as gay and lesbian community/health and community-based organizations centers and lesbian cancer projects. serving them. This innovative research project is 99,000 “African-American lesbians may partially supported by a grant from People registered with HRC’s free online face double jeopardy in terms of mor- the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Action Center tality and morbidity from cancer and Foundation. For more information other diseases,” says Fields. “ But about the Spirit Study, call 202/ because very little research has 332-5536 or e-mail cfields@maut- 125,000 focused on our community, very little nerproject.org. E-mails and faxes sent in last year via Action Center Sex on Appeal The U.S. Supreme Court is slated to hear oral arguments March 26 on a 1.5 million Texas sodomy case that centers on the constitutionality of anti-gay state HRC equality bumper stickers given away sodomy laws. The Human Rights Campaign signed a “friend of the court” brief, supporting New York-based Lambda Legal’s efforts to have the high last year court declare a violation of equal protection and privacy in the case, Lawrence v. Texas. The brief describes the sodomy laws as outdated, and provides strong evidence that gays and lesbians are law-abiding, productive citizens who are 60,000 healthy partners, good parents, patriotic veterans and sometimes heroic Downloads of The State of the Workplace last year citizens. A decision in the case is expected this summer.

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 5 Off the Sidewalks — and Into the Streets

n nearly two dozen communities across the country this year, I HRC volunteers will march in their local pride parades — more than double the number who did so five years ago. And the numbers are rising, says Frank Butler, HRC’s deputy director for PEÑA LUCILO PHOTO: membership outreach. “ It allows the local community to see the face of HRC,” said Butler. “ It’s also a lot of fun.” And it’s an opportunity to be creative. Last year, a supporter in San Francisco made a 50-foot flag with the blue-and-yellow HRC Equality logo for the HRC contingent to carry in the city’s pride parade. A million people cheered them on as they marched down Market Street. Black pride events have more than doubled in number over the past few years. This year, HRC will participate in and sponsor more than 14 black pride celebrations — and two Latino/a pride events. Every year, HRC participates in more than 75 pride celebrations. Approximately 2,000 HRC members and supporters volunteered to march and help staff HRC booths in 2002. For more information or to volunteer, contact HRC Membership Organizer David Adrine at [email protected], call 800/727-4723 or log onto www.hrc.org.

Test Your Pride IQ

Pride celebrations have long been an important part of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community’s culture and history. Here’s your chance to show your stuff! The first 50 members who e-mail, fax or write in the correct answers will win an HRC Equality cap.*

1. The modern GLBT civil rights movement was pride celebration on the same day a few launched by a rebellion at the Stonewall Inn in blocks apart? New York City. What month and year did 7. For many years, Sen. Paul Wellstone, D-Minn., that occur? proudly led the HRC contingent in what city’s 2. Name the first West Coast city to commemorate annual pride parade? the Stonewall uprising with a gay pride march. 8. What is the 2003 international pride theme? 3. What rip-roarin’ contingent often leads 9. Identify the religious political extremist who pre- pride parades? dicted that Orlando, Fla., would suffer “terrorist 4. Where was the first official Dyke March held? bombs … earthquakes, tornadoes and possibly a meteor” for flying gay pride flags along 5. Whose participation in pride-related activities its streets? came under discussion during Senate hearings about his confirmation as U.S. ambassador 10. Complete this popular pride parade ditty: to Luxembourg? “ We’re —— , we’re —— , get used to it.” 6. What city hosted the Iowa State Republican *Send answers to Frank Butler at: (e-mail) [email protected], (fax) 202/234-5323 or (mail) HRC, 919 18th St., N.W., Ste. 800, Party convention and the city’s first annual gay Washington, DC 20006.

6 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY Building

HRC’s New Home Takes Shape By Janice Hughes

n a tree-lined corner a few blocks from the O White House, a new building is emerging amid the clang of metal and swirling dust of construction. The building is one that many never imagined possible — a permanent home in the nation’s capital dedicated to securing full equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans. Its message to the thousands of people who will pass by it every day: “ Power, permanence and presence for the Human Rights Campaign and the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community — that’s what our new building is all about,” says Elizabeth Birch, HRC’s executive director. CHANGING ROOMS. The ground-floor public space of HRC’s new building — the Equality Forum — is being transformed.

So far, Birch and members of HRC’s state-of-the-art video production facilities, capital campaign team have found that lots available for use by allied organizations. of people from across the country under- HRC has kept the main structure of stand the significance of the effort. More the building, opened in 1956 and for- than 600 donors have already stepped for- merly occupied by B’nai B’rith, a Jewish ward — pledging more than $20 million. civil rights and community service orga- Another $5 million, however, still must be nization. HRC is updating all the interi- raised to complete the project. or systems, installing new lighting, thermal windows, new air conditioning B. PROUD, JAMES PHOTOS: DECKER, TOP; BOTTOM ‘A Force to Be and cutting edge fire prevention and Reckoned With’ security systems. In the fall, HRC will dedicate the new- HRC’s new home also will have a Before Construction … ly renovated, eight-story headquarters, “green roof” — one of the first in down- steps away from three major Washington town Washington — that will feature soil avenues, near Embassy Row and buildings and plantings to reduce rainwater runoff, housing leading think tanks, labor unions, thus limiting the flow of pollutants into associations and civil rights groups. the city’s water system. The green roof “ It’s a great location — with great visi- will also provide greater insulation, bility. We believe it’s going to remind reducing heating and cooling costs. everyone we are a force to be reckoned The workspace is also innovative, said with,” said Gwen Baba, co-chair of Christopher Speron, capital campaign HRC’s board of directors. director. “ One of our overall concepts Indeed, the new 60,000-square-foot was to make the space ‘open and honest’ building will provide much more than — to leave a lot of open space for a team- office space. “ It’s going to be a place to based environment, and not trap work, to meet and to dream,” said Birch. employees and their creative energy in a “ We’re creating a kind of toolbox for the warren of small offices.” There will be … During … GLBT movement.” small and large meeting spaces on each It will include a visitors lounge and pub- floor, glass-fronted offices, floor-to-ceil- lic gathering space; an area for public edu- ing windows and open workstations. In addition, there will be a limited number of private offices, each the same size. “ What has been so exciting has been to see these design plans take shape every day,” Sachse said.

The Final Stretch Meanwhile, the goal is to raise the final $5 million before the building’s dedication

… and After (Computer Rendering) in the fall — not an easy task, Speron said. cation, news conferences and large “ Like others who have bought their own galleries with rotating and permanent headquarters, we are finding that the final exhibits; computer access to HRC’s months of raising money are the most crit- Action Center; and conference and train- ical.” Volunteers and members of the cap- ing facilities, said Jeff Sachse, president of ital campaign team continue to travel the capital campaign. It will also feature extensively across the country and reach

8 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY HRC leaders gather at construction kickoff party last October.

To Contribute —

Members are the foundation of HRC’s strength. But a permanent home, owned by HRC and its members, requires a different foundation. This is a unique opportunity to be part of HRC history. To pay tribute, a commemorative Equality logo plaque will be prominently displayed on the first floor of the building, listing $100 donors in the blue out to members. The team is also working be $3.2 million, $3.9 million and to lease the space on the top three floors $4.6 million. area, $500 donors in the yellow area — approximately 21,000 square feet. Many want to contribute because they and $1,000-$4,999 donors framing One person who has been a major driv- understand how critical it is for the them. Additional recognition opportuni- GLBT movement to have visibility in ing force is Birch, said Tim Boggs, co-chair ties are available for gifts of $5,000 and of HRC’s board of directors. “ Elizabeth Washington, Boggs noted. Several say they want a big, bold presence for youth has had an incredible vision for this build- above, and are payable over five years. across America to see or hear about — as To make a tax-deductible gift —— ing — that it would be something more they try to understand their own sexual- than just utilitarian, that it would be a ity and gender identity. Finally, others over and above your annual support —— great work environment for employees give as a way to pay tribute to a family log onto the HRC website. For more and a space to welcome the GLBT com- member — a parent, a child, an uncle, information on gifts above $5,000, munity and supporters,” he said. Further, he said. “ They want to leave a legacy — Birch has spoken at building fund raisers in a special way.” contact Christopher Speron at in several U.S. cities over the last 202/216-1548 or [email protected]. few months and will continue to through the fall. People donate for a variety of reasons, said Speron. Many understand the prac- tical business reasons to buy a headquarters building — especially in the face of Washington’s skyrocketing rents. The annual benefits of HRC’s owning its own building will jump dramatically, allowing more dollars to go directly to programs rather than to rent. In years 10, 15 and 20 of ownership, projected occupancy costs are estimated at approximately $1.3 million, $1.5 million and $1.7 million, respectively. If HRC were to lease in those same years a comparable

PHOTOS: CHRISTOPHER BANKS, JAMES DECKER, TOP; CHRISTOPHER BOTTOM PHOTOS: space, the annual occupancy costs would Washington Inroads Still Possible By Tracey St. Pierre

s the gavel came down Jan. 7 to start the 108th A Congress, Republicans controlled the Senate, the House of Representatives and the White House. It marked the first time in 50 years — except for a few months in 2000 — that the GOP held such an array of power in the nation’s capital.

What the GOP sweep will mean to the follow a different direction. While both fight for gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans- senators earned zeroes on HRC’s legislative gender equality in the months ahead is scorecard for the 107th Congress, Frist has unclear. Republican Bill Frist, a Tennessee not been a vocal opponent on GLBT-related senator in his second term, unexpectedly issues. The only physician in the Senate, took over as Senate majority leader in Jan- Frist co-sponsored and helped broker the uary after Trent Lott of Mississippi — who reauthorization of the Ryan White Com- once likened gays to alcoholics and klepto- prehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act maniacs — left the post after making in the 106th Congress — legislation that racially insensitive remarks at the 100th has been critical to the care and treatment birthday party for retiring Sen. Strom of people living with HIV/AIDS. He has Thurmond, R-S.C. Meanwhile, one of the also worked on legislation aimed at com- most anti-GLBT senators in history, Jesse bating HIV/AIDS internationally. Helms, R-N.C., has also retired. In the House, the good news for GLBT It’s tough to predict what the new Americans is that House Majority Leader Congress will be able to get done as huge Dick Armey, R-Texas — who once called challenges — including situations in Iraq openly gay Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., and North Korea, domestic security, and “ Barney Fag” — has retired. Unfortunate- economic uncertainty — demand their ly, his replacement is fellow Texas Republi- attention. Also looming over Washington can Tom DeLay, another outspoken is the presidential election, less than two opponent of equality. Meanwhile, House years away. Democrats took the historic step of elect- But one thing is certain, says Winnie ing the first woman as party leader — Rep. Stachelberg, political director of the Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., a strong HRC ally. Human Rights Campaign. “ We’re going to keep working with our allies in both A Steady Drumbeat parties to build majorities of support for The HRC political team has been laying advances for our community. And we will the groundwork for legislative advances on be there if any anti-GLBT attacks arise.” traditional civil rights issues, including hate It’s hard to tell if Frist will follow Lott’s crimes and employment discrimination, footsteps and stymie efforts on Capitol Hill Stachelberg said. On the heels of its release to advance GLBT equality — or choose to last year of its landmark transgender poll,

10 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY Power SHIFT

HRC will also expand its efforts to educate ‘Kitchen Table’ Issues cleared Congress quickly and was signed on transgender issues and press for legisla- In 2003, Congress is likely to intensify into law by President George W. Bush. tion that would specifically protect all mem- its focus on tax and finance issues, espe- In the coming months, HRC will support bers of the GLBT community, she noted. cially as growing numbers of Americans various proposals that seek to provide equi- HRC is hopeful that inroads can be voice their concern about the country’s table protections to domestic partners — made on hate crimes, particularly as the economic problems. “ They’re hot, front- including provisions on pension reform, Republican Party struggles to recover from burner issues for Capitol Hill, the White hospital visitation, tax treatment of health Lott’s remarks in December and the ensu- House and HRC,” Menard said. benefits and health insurance coverage under ing public debate about the GOP’s com- GLBT Americans, in particular, are hit COBRA, the Consolidated Omnibus Bud- mitment to full civil rights. “ In the short hard because they are taxed more and pro- get Reconciliation Act of 1986. run, comprehensive hate crimes legislation tected less than their heterosexual coun- that would expand jurisdiction to race- terparts with regard to health insurance, On the Bench based hate crimes may move ahead — retirement and other areas. (See “ Cost of One battle already erupting in Washing- especially in the Senate where individual Being Gay,” p. 13.) HRC has been work- ton in 2003 is over Bush’s federal judicial members can more easily force a vote on a ing to educate lawmakers and the Ameri- nominees, who must win approval from piece of legislation,” said Barbara Menard, can public about the need to remedy the full Senate. Leaders of the anti-GLBT HRC’s deputy director for legislation. federal laws that cover such everyday, Christian Coalition have announced that HRC lobbyists also will push to build “ kitchen table” issues even before they the confirmation of “conservative judges” support for other key bills, including the came under greater scrutiny in the wake of will top their agenda this year. Bush has Permanent Partners Immigration Act, a the Sept. 11 attacks. already renominated several judges with measure that would allow U.S. citizens “ When you explain it simply, people anti-GLBT records to the federal circuit, and permanent residents to sponsor their get it, including members of Congress,” including Charles W. Pickering Sr., Jay same-sex partners for immigration. said Menard, citing the Mychal Judge Act Bybee and Timothy Tymkovich. Another bill, the Early Treatment for HIV as an example. In the previous Congress, the Senate Act, would expand Medicaid to cover life- In the summer of 2002, Congress Judiciary Committee — under Demo- saving drugs to treat HIV/AIDS. Menard approved that measure to provide a feder- cratic leadership — was able to defeat predicted that the two bills will draw more al payment to the beneficiaries of public Pickering. Moreover, a battle may emerge co-sponsors as HRC begins to highlight safety officers killed in the line of duty if an opening arises on the U.S. Supreme lawmakers’ stances on these issues by tal- (including those who died in the Sept. 11 Court. “ If that’s the case, buckle your seat lying their support or opposition in its attacks) without a surviving legally recog- belts,” Stachelberg said. congressional scorecard. nized spouse, son or daughter. The bill St. Pierre is an HRC senior policy advocate.

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 11

The CO$T of Being Gay

Katie’s parents are married. After Katie’s mom died, Katie received $900 per month in surviving child benefits, and her dad received $900 per month as Lucia lost her her surviving parent. adoptive mom. Bottom line: $900 for Katie and Lucia’s mom adopted her $900 for her dad to take care of through second-parent adop- Corey’s dad was not 1 her = $1,800 per month. tion. When her mom died, permitted to adopt him. Lucia should have received Corey’s dad wasn’t legally recog- $900 per month in surviving nized as his parent because child benefits. But because the state where their family lives Lucia’s parents were not per- doesn’t allow second-parent mitted to marry, her surviving adoptions by same-sex partners. mother could not get surviv- When Corey’s dad died, neither ing parent benefits to help Corey nor his other dad could take care of her. receive any Social Security Bottom line: $900 for Lucia survivors’ benefits. and $0 for her mom to take Bottom line: $0 for Corey and care of her = $900 per month. $0 for his dad = $0.

By Lara Schwartz any people think that Social biological parent or has not adopted her ents’ marital status, especially when their M Security is only a retirement (often because the state would not allow a parents are prohibited from marrying. program. But it also functions like sur- second-parent adoption). HRC is working to educate voters and leg- vivor’s insurance. When someone who has A domestic partner caring for a child — islators alike about the inequities in federal worked and paid into Social Security dies, even if the child is her partner’s biological law, and promoting numerous federal leg- certain family members are eligible for sur- or adopted child — is not eligible for sur- islative proposals that would reduce — and vivor benefits that are often worth more viving parent benefits because the partner eventually eliminate — the high cost of than the deceased person’s life insurance. does not meet the federal definition of being gay. The following family members are eligi- “spouse” or the Social Security definition Schwartz is an HRC senior counsel. ble for Social Security survivor benefits: of “widow.” 1 These figures are for illustrative purposes only, and surviving spouses over a certain age,2 sur- “ The program needs to treat all families reflect a contributor with a 10-year work history who earned $50,000 in the final year of her life. viving spouses of any age who are caring equally,” said Winnie Stachelberg, political 2 Because they cannot marry, same-sex domestic part- for their deceased spouse’s child under 16, director of the Human Rights Campaign. ners are not entitled to surviving spouse benefits. The and unmarried children up to 18 years of To remedy this arbitrary and unfair cost of this inequity is not addressed here. 3 Or 19 years of age, if they are attending elementary age.3 But the definitions of qualifying treatment of same-sex couples and their or secondary school full time. family members deprive same-sex families children, HRC is strongly encouraging the and their children of crucial benefits pro- Bush administration to (1) require that any Know Your Benefits vided to other families, even though these Social Security reform efforts ensure that The Social Security Administration sends each contributor an annual statement of estimated benefits. Regardless of your familes are required to contribute just as these critical survivor benefits are available marital or parental status, the statement will include estimated much to Social Security. to all Americans in committed, long-term surviving child and surviving parent benefits. You can request a A child is not eligible for surviving child relationships; and (2) ensure that federal new estimate through the Social Security Administration website, www.ssa.gov/statement. benefits if the parent who dies is not her law ceases to penalize children for their par-

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 13 On Winning, Gay Allies and What’s ahead A Conversation with the Junior Senator from Louisiana

5 years old, and so literally my first memories are of belonging to a family that just put human rights Late last fall, Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La., and civil rights at a very high priority. turned back a strong challenge by a Stachelberg: You’ve supported some tough votes Republican opponent in a closely watched over the last several years, and have spoken out runoff, marking a stunning triumph for the against some anti-gay attacks. What lesson can we — Democratic Party. Landrieu, who in 1996 and some of your Senate colleagues — learn from the was the first woman elected to represent votes that you have taken? Louisiana in the Senate, has been a strong Landrieu: I would start by saying that I am privi- leged to represent the wonderful state of Louisiana. ally of the Human Rights Campaign —— … not that these issues are not controversial in my earning 100 percent in the last Congress. state or in that region of the country. Louisiana is … The 47-year-old senator, a former state tolerant of diversity, and perhaps it is because of our treasurer and legislator, is the eldest of very unique history of more Spanish and more French influence in terms of our law. And so I rec- nine children and the daughter of former ognize the extra latitude that I have. ... But I would New Orleans Mayor Moon Landrieu. She even say for senators who don’t represent con- recently spoke with Winnie Stachelberg, stituencies that have this characteristic, that it is HRC’s political director, in her Capitol Hill always best to just try to do the right thing and … offices, about her victory, gay supporters to hold to the principles, the moral principles, even if it is unpopular with general constituents. and the need for the president to “set the Stachelberg: There is a tremendous organization tone” in the years ahead. in your state, the Louisiana Lesbian and Gay Polit- ical Action Caucus. What is your impression of their efforts? Stachelberg: You have an incredibly strong record on gay and lesbian issues. Where did that come from? Landrieu: They have been very effective and they have built a great coalition, not only [among] gay Landrieu: Well, I guess it started many years ago, and lesbian individuals themselves but their fami- coming out of the family that I had the great priv- lies, their friends, supervisors, employers, employ- ilege to be raised in — just a mother and a father ees [helping people recognize] it is just a very committed to equality and justice and non- valuable community … in terms of the contribu- discrimination. My father, early in his career, led tions that gays and lesbians make business-wise, in the fight to dismantle the Jim Crow laws on the culture, arts. … [The coalition] has presented this books in Louisiana. He was elected when I was

14 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY to the Legislature in a way that has frankly been on friends, co-workers, business people, etc. It had able to attract a lot of Republican support and a tremendous positive impact in delivering votes to Democratic support. the bottom line — which delivered the victory. Stachelberg: Clearly, election year 2002 ended up Stachelberg: On Capitol Hill, I think we’ve made PHOTO: PHOTO: THE PRESS ASSOCIATED being a bleak one for Democrats. Your Senate victo- great progress. We’ve had some successful votes on the ry was a bright spot — despite some very tough odds hate crimes measure. Congressional support has and in the face of a tide that some thought was turn- grown against job discrimination, and recently, Pres- ing exclusively toward the Republicans. To what do ident Bush — in his State of the Union address — you attribute your win? talked about the AIDS epidemic. But our commu- Landrieu: A couple of things. One was our focus nity is still far from achieving our equality both in on putting Louisiana first and explaining to the Congress and in state legislatures. Are you optimistic voters in the state that while you could be support- or pessimistic about progress in the next few years in ive of the president, the most important thing was Congress for our community? to have a senator that you could trust to deliver for Landrieu: I feel like we have taken a few steps for- “My father … the state. … If [the president] is not supporting ward and then a few steps back. … But I would led the fight to ideas, plans or policies that promote the welfare hope in this day and age that we would … see more dismantle the and well-being of the people of my state then obvi- immediate progress, particularly on hate crimes Jim Crow laws ously I am not going to [support him]. … That legislation, on ENDA. … I am … disappointed in was the overall theme, and then underneath that the Senate, and the Republican leadership that is on the books in we put a very sophisticated political outreach holding it up. … I think this president has an obli- Louisiana. … [M]y which included the base, the Democratic base, gation if he wants to set a new tone and wants to first memories which in our state is the unions, working people, show compassionate conservatism. This could be are of belonging African Americans, small business owners, pro- where he could step out. He just has not done that choice community, generally, the gay and lesbian and it is disappointing. to a family that community. Not that that community doesn’t sup- Stachelberg: Yes, and it certainly has disappoint- just put human port Republican candidates, but in this case, the ed us. Of course, there is a whole range of issues that rights and civil Republican candidate that I ran against [Suzanne many in our community have faced for a long time, rights at a very Terrell] absolutely reversed her position on hate such as ensuring that we can take care of our children high priority. crimes. [She] was, in her previous life, a “moderate” and families through pensions, Social Security sur- ” and then she became in the election an ultracon- vivor benefits and adequate adoption protection. servative and basically ran away from all of her past What is your understanding and support for gay and support. And I think the gay community saw the lesbian relationships? hypocrisy of it, and even Republicans in the gay community and in their fight, too, decided to cast Landrieu: I most certainly support the law and their votes with me. And I was very proud to have individual states’ laws, and encourage them to their support. allow for civil unions and to allow for a broad range [of benefits], whether it is medical or insur- Stachelberg: The Human Rights Campaign sent ance benefits. Now I wouldn’t cross the line in staff to be on the ground for the first race in Novem- terms of advocating for legalization of marriage. … ber and again in December. What was your impres- In terms of adoption and child rearing, there are so sion of HRC? many children in this world who need a place, a Landrieu: Very professional, extremely helpful. home and a loving environment that we should be My margin of victory was 40,000 so you could proud of adults who step forward, who are imagine by estimating what the gay and lesbian employed and responsible, to raise these children community is in Louisiana and their direct impact with a good upbringing.

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 15 profile This is the second in a series of HRC Quarterly profiles of 2004 U.S. presidential hopefuls.

John Kerry Three-Term Senator Has Stellar Record on Gay Civil Rights By Mark Shields

Kerry was one Born in a military hospital in 1943 to a World Today, Kerry supports the idea that gay and les- War II serviceman and his wife, John Kerry has had bian relationships should enjoy rights and privileges of only 14 a lifelong affiliation with the U.S. military. As a equivalent to those of marriage. “ I’m for civil union senators to vote decorated veteran of the Vietnam War, Kerry made and partnership — and I would make sure that a distinctive stand in support of gays in the military every federal entity works to make those provisions against DOMA. during early ’90s hearings before the Senate Armed available,” he said. Services Committee. Kerry says his record over the years on a range of “ I think that any American ought to be able to issues sets him apart from other candidates. In serve their country if they are physically qualified 1985, he authored the Senate version of the gay and able,” said the Massachusetts senator in a civil rights bill — a measure that, if passed, would recent interview with HRC have covered discrimination in employment, hous- Quarterly. “ There were gay peo- ing and credit. His average score on the Human ple who served in Vietnam. Rights Campaign’s congressional scorecard, begun There were gay people who in the 101st Congress, is 96 percent — with a per- served in World War II, Korea fect score for the last four congresses. and World War I — and great But Kerry has opposed HRC on three measures acts of heroism have been per- — an amendment that sought to restrict schools formed by people who are gay.” from using materials that “promote homosexuali- Kerry is among the early ty;” an amendment that sought to levy a $10,000 front-runners in the bid for the fine and lengthy prison term on health care 2004 Democratic presidential providers who know they have HIV and perform nomination. A Yale graduate, medical procedures without telling patients; and an Kerry: For the Record Kerry was elected lieutenant gov- amendment barring the permanent immigration of Workplace Discrimination Co-sponsor of ernor of Massachusetts in 1982. people who test positive for HIV/AIDS. the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, a bill He was elected to the Senate in Meanwhile, Kerry has strong words about the that would ban workplace discrimination based 1984, and has consistently sup- current administration’s policies on HIV/AIDS, on sexual orientation. ported, sometimes at great polit- which favor abstinence-only programs over scien- Hate Crimes Co-sponsor of a strong hate ical peril, civil rights for the gay tifically based prevention programs. “ It’s embar- crimes prevention measure, the Local Law community. rassing for the United States to have this kind of Enforcement Enhancement Act. In addition to his support for zealotry getting in the way of common sense. ... [As HIV/AIDS Co-sponsor of the Early Treatment gays in the military, he was one president] I’m going to reverse as many of those for HIV Act, which would expand Medicaid to of only 14 senators to vote in particular directives as possible, and I’m going to people living with HIV, and supports science- 1996 against the anti-gay set us on a path of common sense and decency.” based prevention programs. Defense of Marriage Act, or “ I think that tolerance is what this country is Gay Civil Rights Bill Authored the Senate ver- DOMA. “ I thought it was rank built on,” said Kerry. “ That’s what America is sion of the Civil Rights Amendments Act of 1985, gay bashing; it was pure political about. That’s our journey.” a comprehensive gay civil rights bill that would exploitation,” said Kerry. Shields is HRC’s associate director of communications. have covered discrimination in employment, housing and credit. PHOTO: PHOTO: THE PRESS ASSOCIATED

16 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY Riding the Wave HRC To Build on Growing Support for Gay Parenting

isa Bennett clearly recalls the day in early mendations calling for greater equity for gay and L February 2002 when the fax arrived from lesbian couples and parents. the American Academy of Pediatrics, saying the Never before had so many important profes- national organization was going to issue a public sional organizations stood up in support of gay statement calling for equal protections for gay and and lesbian families in a single year as they did in lesbian parents and their children. 2002, said Bennett. “ We were absolutely thrilled — and surprised,” So what comes next? said Bennett, deputy director for the Human In 2003, HRC’s FamilyNet project will work to Rights Campaign Foundation’s FamilyNet project. ride this unprecedented wave of support by edu- “ Children’s doctors nationwide were standing up cating more mainstream professional organizations for gay and lesbian parenting with little direct pres- about the challenges that face all families. sure from our community.” After its Feb. 4 Under a first-time grant from the San Francisco- announcement, the Chicago-based group faced the based Haas Fund, HRC will pursue a three-step inevitable backlash — ugly, personal attacks on strategy to increase public and professional support some doctors, canceled memberships and a stream for gay and lesbian families. First, HRC will seek to of angry faxes orchestrated by anti-gay opponents. interview key staff members at the American Acade- But it refused to budge. my of Pediatrics, American Psychoanalytic Associa- In May, the American Psychoanalytic Associa- tion and the American Academy of Family tion issued a similar statement of support for gay Physicians to determine what inspired their state- and lesbian parenting, followed by the American ments, what hurdles they faced and how they over- Academy of Family Physicians in October. A came both internal and external opposition. month later, the American Law Institute, a group Second, HRC will develop a best-practices strat- composed of some of the most prominent lawyers egy paper that outlines the most successful tactics and judges in the country, released a set of recom- for advocating for equality within such groups. Third, HRC will approach other organizations Numerous prestigious professional groups have with this roadmap in hand, and encourage them to stood up for gay and lesbian parenting. Many have take a similar stand. condemned inequities in adoption, custody and “ One powerful tool are first-hand accounts other parenting situations, and all have affirmed from our families about second-parent adop- that sexual orientation is irrelevant to good parent- tion,” said Bennett. Such adoptions allow the ing. The American Psychological Association also partner of an adoptive or biological parent to condemned discrimination based on gender identi- become a legal parent. HRC will continue to col- ty. Among those groups are: lect such testimonials through FamilyNet’s “ Share Your Story” pages on HRC’s website. ᮣ American Academy of Pediatrics (2002) As of this writing, only eight states and ᮣ American Psychoanalytic Association (2002) the District of Columbia have made second-par- ᮣ American Academy of Family Physicians (2002) ent adoption available statewide while 19 states ᮣ North American Council on Adoptable Children have awarded second-parent adoptions in (1998) certain counties. ᮣ American Psychiatric Association (1997) For more information, visit www.hrc.org/ ᮣ Child Welfare League of America (1988) familynet, the most comprehensive, up-to-date ᮣ American Psychological Association (1976, 1998) resource on GLBT families.

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 17 Partnering for Progress

HRC Builds on Equality uman Rights Campaign field In 2002, HRC Senior Field Organizer Funds Program To Boost H organizers are stepping up their Michael Crawford visited Pennsylvania efforts to give intensive, hands-on help to twice to help lead lobby trainings for vol- State-Level Gains statewide gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans- unteers who, in turn, met with their legis- By Sally Green gender advocacy groups in their work lators to push for a hate crimes bill that with state legislatures. sought to expand the state’s Last year, HRC’s field organizers criss- ethnic intimidation law to cover sexual ori- crossed the country to help statewide entation, gender identity and other cate- groups train volunteers and develop gories. The bill — stalled in a House strategies. This year, HRC will build on committee despite Senate passage 17 the state-level partnerships developed months earlier — eventually passed, under its Equality Fund grants program, thanks in large part to constituent pres- especially as a large number of battles for sure. GLBT equality loom. “ The passage of the hate crimes bill, Fighting for gains at the state level is and its inclusion of sexual orientation crucial to the GLBT movement, said Seth and gender identity, was a huge success Kilbourn, HRC’s national field director. for the coalition of groups that came “ When there is a victory in any one state, together to make it happen. HRC was a there are reverberations in other states and valuable ally in this fight,” said Stacey in Congress because lawmakers at all lev- Sobel, executive director of the Center els pay attention to what state legislatures for Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights, based do. The more states there are with fair in Philadelphia. Along with providing a laws, the closer GLBT Americans are to total of $10,000 in Equality Fund full equality. A truly national GLBT grants, HRC sent e-mail messages movement must recognize that reality.” through its online Action Center and And a lot can happen in statehouses. In worked with the Philadelphia HRC general, bills move much more rapidly at steering committee to help motivate the state level than they do on Capitol members to contact their legislators. Hill, he noted. They often cover a much HRC made a difference in Alabama, larger scope of rights and protections than too. It sent a field organizer to Mont- do similar bills in Congress. gomery to join Ken Baker, co-chair of

18 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY The more states there are with fair laws, “the closer GLBT Americans are to full equality, says HRC’s Kilbourn. ”

Equality Alabama, in a meeting with the domestic partnership bills that have been Also in 2003, a large number of fami- lead sponsor of a hate crimes bill. “ Our filed in the Legislature. Last year, Califor- ly-related bills may come up for consider- partnership with the Human Rights nia enacted several groundbreaking ation in statehouses. Bills addressing Campaign on our proposed state hate domestic partnership laws, and is set to marriage, civil unions and domestic part- crimes bill enabled us to really step up continue in 2003. One such bill, A.B. nership may arise in Connecticut, Mas- our lobbying efforts,” said Baker. “ With 17, seeks to require state contractors to sachusetts, New Jersey and Wisconsin. HRC’s assistance, we were able to identi- offer the same benefits to their employ- Texas will face an anti-gay defense of fy key targets and get crucial feedback ees’ domestic partners as they offer to marriage bill and an anti-gay foster care from the lieutenant governor on the bill’s their employees’ legal spouses. bill. Ohio may face a bill to prohibit the chances. Although we didn’t pass it in “ We’re very grateful to HRC for its state from recognizing any GLBT rela- 2002, we were also able to help design a continued support of our legislative tionships. Meanwhile, various fights proactive strategy for 2003.” efforts in California,” said CAPE’s Geoff loom in Iowa: A civil rights bill is up for HRC’s work on the ground has Kors. “ The Equality Fund grant will help consideration as is legislation barring gay increased over the years alongside the us build our database of voters who sup- adoption and foster care. In Minnesota, growth of the Equality Fund program. port equality and, as a result, enhance our anti-gay lawmakers are trying to repeal an During 2000, the grant program’s first lobbying efforts.” CAPE is working with existing civil rights law and have filed a year, HRC provided $114,115 to 27 HRC to gain support from the business bill that would remove all references to state groups. A year later, that number community for the equal benefits legisla- “sexual orientation” — and thus “gender increased to $122,000 to 28 groups. tion, and is looking to continue that identity” which is covered in the state’s This year, HRC will provide $151,000 work in the future, he noted. law — from state law. The bill also would to 40 groups for their work. Unity Utah is using an Equality Fund cancel employment non-discrimination, HRC is hoping that GLBT groups grant to fight an anti-gay marriage mea- hate crimes, safe schools and other pro- will be able to use recent grants to sure and support a hate crimes bill, tections. fight for — and against — some key according to Michael Mitchell, executive “ We’re ready to work closely with our pieces of legislation. director of the Salt Lake City-based friends at the state level in the year In California, HRC provided the group. “ We’ve used the money to con- ahead,” said Kilbourn. “ Every win statewide group, the California Alliance duct town hall meetings around the state counts for each one of us.” for Pride and Equality, with a grant to and conduct a survey on what the GLBT Green is an HRC senior field organizer. build a database of names of GLBT and community and our allies would like to GLBT-supportive voters. The aim is to see us be doing on the legislative front,” tap these people to build support for Mitchell said.

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 19 HIGHER Learning HRC Reaches Out to Historically Black College Campuses By Janice Hughes

ince the late 1800s, historically black colleges and universities have played a S crucial role in providing many black Americans with a college education, previously denied to them under slavery. Today, some 100 HBCUs continue to offer quality education to tens of thousands.

In one area, however, historically in Charlotte, N.C., and co-sponsored that there is very little understanding or black colleges and universities have failed another last fall in Atlanta for students awareness at all levels of HBCUs about to take the lead — and that is in address- of several area HBCUs. Hate crimes, dealing with gay issues,” said Brandon ing gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender HIV/AIDS, harassment and coming out Braud, an HRC staffer who moderated PHOTOS: JAMES DECKER issues. Over the last year and a half, came under discussion. the Charlotte and Atlanta forums. the Human Rights Campaign has Many people are afraid to speak up So silence reigns on most HBCU begun to reach out to HBCUs to try to about GLBT matters on historically campuses. Few efforts have been made change that. black campuses, Payne said. One reason to establish GLBT student groups at Last November, HRC Executive is because many of the schools retain these schools — and when they do, Director Elizabeth Birch urged Walter E. close links to the churches that helped recognition and financial support are Massey, the president of Morehouse Col- establish them. Most leaders of these slow in coming. lege of Atlanta, to address such issues churches, which remain the bedrock of Third-year student Jonathan Perry, after a student assaulted a dorm mate who spearheaded the forum last year at with a bat because he thought he was gay. Smith, one of the oldest historically black Many people are afraid Within 24 hours, Massey responded, colleges in the country, says it took more assuring Birch that officials would inves- to speak up about GLBT than six months to secure approval for a tigate. The school took strong action GLBT student group he formed last year. against the assailant. And in late January, matters on historically black Administrators, teachers — even alumni a Morehouse student involved in discus- — voiced opposition, he said. sions with school administrators contact- campuses because many But Perry believes the school is starting ed HRC to help organize a campus to listen. Diversity trainings are in the forum about the effects of homophobia. schools retain close works. Administrators seem more open. Members of HRC’s staff also have “ We’re quite hopeful but proceeding begun to establish a network of informal links to churches. carefully and with sensitivity,” said Payne. contacts across the historically black col- Meanwhile, HRC continues to try to lege and university student community many black communities and family life, build relationships — sponsoring forums — through discussions on the Internet say little about GLBT issues. Those that and keeping in touch with students and and at black pride festivals, said Donna do almost invariably preach that homo- local community groups to provide Payne, HRC’s constituent field organiz- sexuality is immoral. resources and monitor developments. er. This year, HRC is looking to co- Another problem on campus is that a “ Discussions are beginning to open up,” sponsor a student forum in New number of students do not come out Payne said. Orleans. In April 2002, HRC sponsored because of fear of rejection. “ One of the Visit www.hrc.org/diversity — HRC's a forum at Johnson C. Smith University biggest challenges we’re facing today is new online project, Celebrate Diversity.

20 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY Knock, Knock, Knockin’ on Every Door Young Activists Canvass for Equality By Frank Butler

t first, knocking on the doors of And the youth bring in all kinds of new A strangers and starting conver- supporters — including a large number of sations about the fight for gay, lesbian, straight allies. bisexual and transgender equality was hard Often, the students find their fund work, Janine Benner says. But it got easier. work influences their career path. And it felt good to work for an important “ I went into college knowing exactly cause, she says. what I wanted to be when I grew up — Benner, 24, is one of thousands of a chief executive officer of a Fortune 500 young activists who have done door-to- company. But my experience working door campaigning under the tutelage of on an HRC campaign changed me — it the Fund for Public Interest Research for made me realize what a difference just a the Human Rights Campaign and other few people can make,” says Jenny Lee, a socially progressive groups. Benner, like recent University of Miami graduate most of her colleagues, says the experience who canvasses for the fund in Boston. was one of the best ever. “ Being surrounded by people who “ It was invaluable,” says Benner, who care about the same issues has been an campaigned in the Los Angeles area. “ Can- incredible experience,” Lee said. “ It con- vassing is really training in how to com- stantly confirms my decision to forgo municate. It taught me how to talk about the corporate road.” the issues — when to push something, and Benner now works for Rep. Earl Blu- when to back off and move on.” menauer, D-Ore. Most people welcomed her at their “ I took away so many great skills from doorstep to talk about HRC, she noted. my work,” agrees Kilbourn, who began “ Even if they disagreed with my cause, his career as a fund canvass director. they still appreciated that I was a young “ Most of all, you learn the basic truth person who was working hard on some- that one person can make an immense thing I believed in.” impact on crucial issues — and that that Benner and others have helped HRC person can be you.” spread its message, and have prompted Even if they Butler is HRC’s deputy director many Americans to contact their mem- disagreed“ with my of membership outreach. bers of Congress about key legislation, says Seth Kilbourn, HRC’s national field cause, they still director. The Boston-based fund helps appreciated that I The Fund for Public Interest Research HRC build its membership and raise trains activists for various progressive money. In turn, the fund hires the staff to was a young person do outreach and canvass. who was working groups and causes. For more information, Year after year, the youth do amazing visit www.ffpir.org. For information about work, said Kilbourn. They signed up hard on something thousands of new HRC members last year I believed in. the fund’s work with HRC, e-mail and were active in 40-plus communities ” [email protected]. PHOTO: JAMES DECKER in all parts of the United States.

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 21

The Business of EQUALITY

HRC’s Merchandise Program Promotes Visibility, Pride

ust before the 1993 March of the program is Don Kiser, HRC’s direc- to afford to give them away — and that’s J on Washington for Lesbian and tor of retail development. Kiser came to what we did.” Gay Equal Rights, Cathy Nelson had a HRC in 1994 after a successful career at Today, HRC gives away about 1.5 mil- brainstorm. Nelson, then membership Door Store Furniture, where he was vice lion bumper stickers each year. Its clothing director for the Human Rights Campaign president of merchandising. Kiser remem- is distributed by Image First of Wilming- Fund, thought the march would be an bers the early days of HRC’s program, ton, Del., a huge apparel company that unmatched opportunity to ask people to “when all the phone orders came directly handles all the online and catalog orders for join HRC(F). The organization found a to my desk, and all the merchandise was HRC’s signature merchandise. In addition storefront in Washington’s largely gay in boxes in the conference room. I’d work to Kiser, the program employs two other Dupont Circle neighborhood, where peo- all week taking orders and all weekend full-time staff at HRC’s headquarters, two ple could also send messages to Congress packing things up for shipping.” full-time staff in the store in Washington, and buy hats and T-shirts. “ That store was At first, the products consisted of one D.C., one full-time seasonal staffer in the wall-to-wall people,” recalled Nelson, line of T-shirts and sweatshirts that said: Provincetown, Mass., store and part-time HRC’s development director. “ Lines were “ humanrightscampaignfund: it’s that salespeople in both stores. A key responsi- down the block from morning until mid- basic.” In 1995, HRC dropped the word bility of the employees is to reach out to all night. It was wild.” “ Fund” and adopted the blue-and-yellow visitors, informing them about HRC and Almost a decade later, the merchandise Equality logo. “ It was the most brilliant its message of equality. program of the Human Rights Cam- thing that could have happened for the The D.C. store has been open for almost paign is a full-time professional operation merchandise program,” Kiser says. “ We three years now, and is well on the way to with two brick-and-mortar stores, a slick now had a symbol of equality that people breaking even — which usually doesn’t annual catalog featuring several lines of would be proud to wear and display.” occur until the fifth year of a retail opera- quality clothing and accessories, an Another breakthrough came later that tion, says Kiser. online store — and the admiration and year when a handful of staffers were sitting In 2002, some 34,000 people visited the envy of non-profits everywhere. around talking about creating bumper D.C. store, and 41,000 dropped into the “ Our merchandise program is one of stickers with the new logo. Kiser remem- one in Provincetown. They purchased the quiet success stories within HRC,” bers arguing over whether to use only the more than 50,000 articles of HRC-brand- says HRC Executive Director Elizabeth logotype or to include the organization ed merchandise. “ Our program is about Birch. “ It has broadened our reach into name, and whether to make permanent visibility, about connecting with people the GLBT community, extended HRC’s bumper stickers or easily removable “stat- we’ve never reached before,” Kiser says. visibility and provided a point of entry ic cling” stickers for windows. “ It came “ We think we’re achieving that goal.” for tens of thousands of new members.” down to cost,” he says. “ Without words

PHOTOS: RICHARD RENALDI PHOTOS: (MUGS), G. JUDY ROLFE (PENDANT), ERIC WAREHEIM (CAP) One reason for the phenomenal growth and without static cling, we would be able

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 23 Getting to ‘I Do’

espite some bold efforts in a few sex marriage. Last summer, courts in Several Countries D states, the United States is lagging the provinces of Ontario and Quebec Far Ahead on behind several other countries in advanc- ruled that prohibiting same-sex cou- ing marriage equality. The Human ples from marrying was unconstitu- Marriage Equality Rights Campaign and other national tional and violated the country’s human rights groups, however, keep an Charter of Rights and Freedoms — a By Liz Seaton eye on developments around the world document similar to the U.S. Bill of — to prepare for progress in this country. Rights. The court gave the Canadian “ It makes sense to examine how some government two years to fix the prob- other countries are handling marriage lem, and legislation to allow same-sex rights for same-sex couples,” says Seth marriage is expected to be introduced Kilbourn, the Human Rights Cam- this year. To track developments, visit paign’s national field director. “ There www.samesexmarriage.ca, the website are lessons to be learned, and it brings of Marriage Equality, a Canadian our work into perspective, too.” advocacy group. Here is a glance at progress abroad: Solid Start in Europe Belgian Breakthrough Europe appears to be moving toward On Jan. 31, Belgium became the second marriage equality as a bloc of nations. In country in the world to legalize same- January, the European Parliament nar- sex marriages. Last fall, a parliamentary rowly approved a report asking the 15 committee voted 11-4 for national legis- European Union countries to give live- lation providing for same-sex marriage, in couples, including same-sex couples, paving the way for both chambers of the the same legal rights that married cou- Parliament to approve the legislation in ples enjoy. The vote, while not binding early 2003. The measure affords all the on the member states, constitutes a legal benefits of opposite-sex marriage, except point of reference for them. France, adoption rights. Germany, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Greenland, Iceland and Finland have a The Netherlands’ Lead type of partnership law that extends to Two years ago, the Netherlands became registered partners most of those legal Meanwhile, the first country in the world to allow rights enjoyed by married couples. Por- Back in the same-sex couples to marry. Their chil- tugal allows same-sex couples to enter United States … dren also receive full protection under into common-law “marriages” — simi- the law. And if a lesbian couple marries lar to domestic partnership arrange- ᮣ A federal measure, the so-called Defense in the Netherlands and one woman has ments in terms of the limited rights and of Marriage Act, purports to ban federal a baby, both have parental authority and benefits available. recognition of same-sex marriage. responsibility for the child — just like ᮣ No state grants same-sex marriages. any legally married heterosexual couple. Others Outpacing United States ᮣ Thirty-seven states have enacted laws Unfortunately, the United States does Unlike the United States, a few other against same-sex marriage. not recognize same-sex marriages per- countries — including Australia, ᮣ Only Vermont permits civil formed in the Netherlands or Belgium. Brazil, Israel and South Africa legally unions —— a new legal status recognize same-sex couples for various that grants marriage rights In the Running: Canada purposes including inheritance, social under state law. The United States’ northern neighbor security and immigration. may be on the cusp of granting same- Seaton is an HRC senior counsel.

24 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY guestcolumn

Out in the World By Michael Heflin hat is it like to be a gay, lesbian, them to be flogged and, in some cases, GLBT human rights. In 1994, post- W bisexual or transgender person to be beheaded. apartheid South Africa became the outside the United States? While the sit- And in Venezuela, police in the city of first country to explicitly ban in its con- uation is different for every region of the Valencia have systematically abused stitution discrimination on the basis of world, most face widespread discrimina- transgender people through verbal sexual orientation, which has been inter- tion, intolerance and violence. In no harassment, physical assault and arbi- preted to include transsexuals. Many country are GLBT people entirely free trary detention. When activists in the Western European countries, unlike the from discrimination. country filed a complaint alleging police United States, now recognize the right of Most GLBT people continue to live in involvement in the murder of a trans- GLBT people to be free from discrimi- fear of violence, both at the hands of the gender activist, the police responded by nation and to enjoy most, if not all, of government and their fellow citizens — targeting the activists for further abuse. the same rights as other citizens. often including their own family mem- GLBT people are becoming more bers. GLBT people undergo torture and Harsh Penalties visible and organized in the developing ill treatment in 50-plus countries, Nearly half of all countries still outlaw countries in Latin American, Africa according to an Amnesty International homosexual conduct, including the and Asia. But they have few resources report issued in 2001. United States, where 13 states still have and are often at the margins of their In Egypt, police rounded up, arrested sodomy laws. Across the world, penal- societies, vulnerable to persecution by and jailed men solely on the basis of ties for violation of these laws vary wide- their governments and other citizens. their alleged sexual orientation. While ly and include execution, torture, What can we, as citizens of the rich- in custody, the men were suspended by flogging, forced psychiatric treatment, est country in the world, do to help? their wrists and beaten with thick sticks, lengthy jail sentences and fines. In those We need to work to secure our rights at some of them said. countries without such bans, GLBT home to set a positive example. We can In Uganda, President Yoweri Musev- people often are persecuted under also support groups that document and eni has called for the arrest of all homo- broadly defined laws criminalizing campaign against GLBT human rights sexuals countrywide, and a number of “debauchery” or “offenses against moral- abuses worldwide. And we can help people have been arrested and tortured, ity or public decency.” emerging local GLBT rights groups according to Amnesty documentation. Lesbians and bisexual women often and advocates in developing countries. In Ecuador, police continue to harass face a double layer of oppression because The time is more than ripe to help our and beat up GLBT people despite the of their gender and sexual orientation. brothers and sisters move ahead. country’s constitutional protections Some families force them into arranged Heflin is director of OUTfront, Amnesty against discrimination on the basis of marriages or other sexual relationships International USA’s program on human rights sexual orientation. with men to “cure” them. and sexual identity, working on behalf of GLBT In Saudi Arabia, courts have convict- But there are signs of progress. Several people everywhere. OUTfront has GLBT groups ed men of homosexuality, sentencing countries have begun to recognize in 35 countries. See www.amnestyusa.org.

SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY 25 Clothing and giftspurpose with a

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Every purchase supports the Human Rights Campaign’s efforts to end discrimination against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans. HRC MEMBERSHIP Your Passport to Equality

There is a path to social change. Carry your 2003 HRC membership All great movements have followed it. It’s a long card with confidence as we journey and winding road with many bumps along the way. onward. After all, it is your passport And the more who travel, the faster we reach our to equality. destination. Each year at this time, HRC works to renew —— in the The path to equality is no exception. most cost-effective way —— every single member, The Human Rights Campaign —— 500,000 members including you. Your decision to answer our renewal strong —— is paving the way. We’ve made progress reminder is the key to winning lasting gains and equal but much ground remains to be covered. And HRC is protections for all GLBT Americans. Your voice, committed for the long haul. through the dollars you invest, has the power to ensure that one day soon, every American can be Continue with us on this journey safe, at work, at home and in the community. by renewing your 2003 HRC membership. Renewing your support reaffirms your commitment to achieving equal rights for all GLBT Americans. And it shows your unwillingness to settle for anything less along the way.

We’re heading in the right direction. Renew today and provide us with the strength to travel farther, faster —— taking us the extra mile and bringing us that much closer, that much sooner.

*If you have already renewed for 2003, please accept our sincere thanks. We’re glad you’re marching onward with us. *If you have yet to renew, please take a moment and return the enclosed renewal form that came with HRC Quarterly, or visit www.hrc.org. We look forward to continuing the journey with you. prideandprejudice

Supporting Equality & Standing Up to Discrimination pride Austin, Texas, March 15. ᮣ Four Seasons Hotel. ᮣ Co-chairs: Josh Allen & Gabrielle Ryan. ᮣ For In working to create a fair-minded majority in Congress, the Human Rights Cam- details: 512/477-1659, [email protected].

paign continues to build relationships with all members, including supportive legislators Houston, March 15. ᮣ Inter-Continental Hotel. who represent traditionally conservative Southern states. Eight Democrats from the ᮣ Co-chairs: Shari Heyden, Tim Kollatschny & region who HRC endorsed last year are expected to help in the fight for gay and lesbian Steven Wagner. ᮣ For details: 713/240-8151, [email protected]. equality during the 108th Congress and beyond. They are: Reps. Artur Davis, D-Ala.; Seattle Bowling, March 15. ᮣ Leilani Lanes. Kendrick Meek, D-Fla.; Denise Majette, D-Ga.; David Scott, D-Ga.; C.A. “Dutch” ᮣ For details: Jaye Lopez, 202/216-1516, Ruppersberger, D-Md.; Christopher Van Hollen, D-Md.; Frank Ballance, D-N.C.; [email protected].

and Brad Miller, D-N.C. Atlanta, May 10. ᮣ Marriott Marquis Hotel. “ We thank each one of these members for stepping forward on our issues,” said HRC ᮣ Co-chairs: LeeAnn Jones & Glen Paul Freed- man. ᮣ For details: 404/627-1210, Executive Director Elizabeth Birch. “ We hope their stances will encourage others in their dinner@hrc_atlanta.org. states to join us in our fight.” Cleveland, May 17. ᮣ Cleveland Renaissance Hotel. ᮣ Co-chairs: Jim Downing, Mary Schwartz & Charlotte Wells. ᮣ For details: 800/790-2538, prejudice Pushing Anti-Gay Policies & Remaining Out of Step [email protected]. Rep. Thomas Tancredo, R-Colo., sent a letter to President Bush in Louisiana, May 17. ᮣ Ritz Carlton Hotel (New Orleans). ᮣ Co-chairs: Carey Bond, Henry Lam- November 2002 attacking the Big Brothers-Big Sisters of America Inc. bert, Frank Welch & Lynn Yeldell. ᮣ For details: for extending its non-discrimination policy — which covers sexual ori- 504/723-3792, [email protected]. entation — to its affiliate groups last summer. The national group’s pol- Chicago, May 31. ᮣ Sheraton Hotel & Towers/ icy has been in place for more than 25 years. Water Street. ᮣ Co-chairs: Amy Bloom & Keith Zabel. ᮣ For details: James Smith, 202/216- “ Representative Tancredo and his associates are playing on longstanding prejudices in an 1527; [email protected].

attempt to smear gay men and lesbians who are giving of their time and talent to mentor Columbus, May 31. ᮣ Hyatt Regency Columbus. at-risk youth,” said HRC Political Director Winnie Stachelberg. ᮣ Co-chairs: Lynne Bowman & Chris Stenger, In his letter, Tancredo also attempted to link sexual orientation with pedophilia. Sever- Honorary Co-Chair Andrea Cambern. ᮣ For details: James Smith, 202/216-1527, or al major U.S. health and child welfare organizations have issued policy statements saying e-mail [email protected]. no correlation exists between homosexuality and child abuse. Eight of Tancredo’s Repub- San Francisco Gala Dinner July 26 lican colleagues also signed the letter. They are: Reps. John Hostettler, R-Ind.; Ernest Upper Midwest Gala Dinner Sept. 13 Istook, R-Okla.; Brian Kerns, R-Ind.; Joseph Pitts, R-Pa.; Jim Ryun, R-Kan.; Bob Seattle Gala Dinner Oct. 4 Schaffer, R-Colo.; Chris Smith, R-N.J.; and John Sullivan, R-Okla. Washington, D.C., National Dinner Oct. 11 New England Gala Dinner Oct. 18 Portland (Ore.) Gala Dinner October (TBD) Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa., wants to include language in federal leg- Michigan Gala Dinner October (TBD) islation that would allow faith-based groups receiving federal funding for Dallas/Fort Worth Black Tie Dinner Nov. 3 community service programs to discriminate against gays and lesbians in St. Louis Gala Dinner Nov. 8 hiring — even in cases where local and state non-discrimination laws are For a complete schedule, see www.hrc.org. already in place, according to a Nov. 25 published report in The See www.boxofficetickets.com for tickets. Washington Post. “ I will make that stand,” he told the newspaper. “ Senator Santorum is not only suggesting that the federal government help fund discrim- Please Support HRC’s National ination with tax dollars against gays and lesbians, but his support for such a provision would Corporate Sponsors: also override state and local non-discrimination laws across the country,” said Stachelberg. Platinum Level Bronze Level Santorum’s remarks contradict those he made last year upon drafting legislation with American Airlines Replacements Ltd. Sen. Joseph Lieberman, D-Conn. Ford Motor Company Cingular Wireless Gold Level Coors Brewing Co. Within hours after the Post ran Santorum’s comments, Birch urged him in a letter to John Hancock The Mitchell Gold Co. clarify his views. At HRCQ press time, he had yet to respond. NIKE Inc. Silver Level The Advocate/OUT Beaulieu Vineyard Boxofficetickets.com IBM Olivia Cruises HRC Corporate Partners and Resorts Centaur Entertainment 28 SPRING 2003 HRC QUARTERLY

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