HRC Expresses Disappointment over U.N. Decision to Postpone Vote on Human
Rights and Sexual Orientation Resolution
HRC Troubled by Reports Indicating U.S. Would Have
Abstained from Voting
Human
Rights Campaign, April 25, 2003
Contact: David M. Smith Phone: (202) 216-1547 Cell: (202)
251-1447
Contact: Mark Shields Phone: (202) 216-1564 Cell: (202)
258-3667
WASHINGTON—The Human Rights
Campaign expressed disappointment today at the postponement of a vote on a
“Human Rights and Sexual Orientation” resolution before the United Nations
Commission on Human Rights. The proposed resolution expressed deep concern at
the widespread abuses based on sexual orientation around the globe and called
upon all nations to protect the human rights of all individuals regardless of
sexual orientation.
“We are very disappointed that the Commission on Human
Rights has chosen to postpone action that affirms the basic human rights of
the world’s gay, lesbian and bisexual population, who along with the
transgender community, are routinely subjected to discrimination and inhumane
treatment,” said HRC Executive Director Elizabeth Birch. “Lasting global
peace begins with basic human rights for all the world’s citizens.”
A consortium of nations led by Pakistan attempted
Thursday to block consideration of the resolution the resolution. In a 24-22
vote, the United States supported its consideration. While the Commission on
Human Rights adjourned before the resolution could be voted on, reports
indicated that the Bush administration would have abstained from voting,
indicating that other language, not necessarily linked to sexual orientation,
was problematic.
HRC sent letters to Secretary of State Collin Powell, and
Ambassador Jeane Kirkpatrick, former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and
current head of the U.S. delegation to the U.N. Commission on Human Rights,
urging them to support the resolution.
“We are troubled by reports that the U.S. would choose
to abstain from voting on a resolution that would protect the civil and human
rights of the world’s gay community,” said Birch. “We are eager to work
with the State Department, allied groups and our supporters in Congress on
this resolution when it next comes up for consideration.”
The Human Rights Campaign is the largest national lesbian
and gay political organization with members throughout the country. It
effectively lobbies Congress, provides campaign support and educates the
public to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans can be
open, honest and safe at home, at work and in the community.
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