The White House on Friday announced gay
rights activist Jeanne Manford would receive the Presidential
Citizens Medal, the nation's second-highest civilian honor.
Manford, who died last month at the age
of 92, founded with her husband Parents, Families and Friends of
Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) in 1972 as a response to the brutal beating
of her gay son, Morty, while attending a gay rights demonstration in
New York City.
“It is my distinguished honor to
award these individuals the 2012 Citizens Medal for their commitment
to public service,” Obama said in a statement. “Their
selflessness and courage inspire us all to look for opportunities to
better serve our communities and our country.”
PFLAG National Executive Director Jody
M. Huckaby said Manford's legacy started with a simple act of love.
“When Jeanne Manford publicly stood
up for her gay son in 1972, she had no idea that her actions would
spark a movement that would change the lives of so many individuals
and families,” said Huckaby. “It started out as a simple act of
love, but Jeanne's legacy lives on, as straight allies continue to
stand alongside their LGBT loved ones, united by their collective
belief in a better – and more equal – tomorrow. Her voice has
been joined by millions of others who have raised their voices and
will continue to do so in support of acceptance, fairness, and
equality.”
Twelve additional civilians will also
be honored at the February 15 evening event to be held at the White
House.