Secretary of State Kerry: promoting gay rights abroad ‘at the very heart’ of U.S. policy
WASHINGTON, D.C., June 10, 2013 (LifeSiteNews) – Secretary of State John Kerry wishes homosexuals around the world a “Happy Pride Month.” That was the message conveyed in a recorded message released Friday to employees of the U.S. State Department, in which he outlined the bureaucracy’s robust approach to promoting homosexual advocacy throughout the world.
“I wanted to take a moment to join people around the world in celebrating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride month,” Kerry said in the message.
“This month is about the assertion of equality and dignity. It is about the affirmation of fundamental freedoms and human rights. It is about people taking pride in who they are, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity. Protecting universal human rights is at the very heart of our diplomacy, and we remain committed to advancing human rights for all, including LGBT individuals. We are committed to advancing these rights not just in the month of June, but year-round.”
Secretary of State John Kerry with President Obama
“As Secretary,” Kerry added, “I join with my colleagues at our embassies, consulates, and USAID missions around the world in saying, no matter where you are, and no matter who you love, we stand with you.
“Across the globe, in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas our diplomats are assisting local LGBT organizations and supporting local human rights advocates working to promote equality, create dialogue, and ensure protections for LGBT individuals.”
Kerry said that the State Department is working to increase the amount of money available for international homosexual advocacy.
“Through the Global Equality Fund, the State Department has already provided critical emergency and long-term assistance to promote and protect the human rights of LGBT persons in over twenty-five countries,” said Kerry. “And our support will continue to grow, in cooperation with other equality-minded governments, foundations and corporations."
He quoted the president as saying that homosexual advocacy is “central” to the U.S. approach to human rights.
“As President Obama said, ‘the struggle to end discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons is a global challenge, and one that is central to the United States’ commitment to promoting human rights,’” said Kerry. “LGBT persons must be free to exercise their human rights--including freedom of expression, freedom of religion, and freedom of assembly and association--without fear of reprisal.”
Concluded Kerry, “To those celebrating Pride in the United States and around the world, I wish you all a Happy Pride month.”
