Responding to news that President Barack Obama will sign a memorandum this evening regarding federal employees, HRC President Joe Solmonese released the following statement:
“Today’s Presidential memorandum committing to a federal workplace free from discrimination, including the extension of some benefits to same-sex partners of federal workers, is a welcome and long-overdue step toward bringing the government’s policies closer in line with what America’s largest companies understand is good for business. Today’s presidential signature is the first brick in paving what is a long path toward equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans. We commend President Obama and his administration for taking this beginning step to level the playing field but we look forward to working with him to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act, overturn “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and guarantee the entire American workforce is free from discrimination.”
According to today’s Daily Guidance from the White House Press Office the event is scheduled for 5:45 pm eastern in the Oval Office.
HRC has worked with the President’s Transition Team since the election and White House Staff since the inauguration to provide them with substantive steps they can take to advance LGBT equality. Our recommendations are outlined in “A Blueprint for Positive Change” – an exhaustive document detailing actions the President can take to make the lives of LGBT people better.
The Human Rights Campaign's perspective on the news, issues and events affecting the every day lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people across the country.
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