Secretary of State John Kerry has
condemned foreign laws which discriminate on the basis of sexual
orientation and gender identity.
In a statement released Friday in
support of Gay Pride Month, Kerry reaffirmed the department's
“commitment to the promotion and protection of the human rights of
LGBT persons around the globe.”
“In the United States, we have made
marked progress in tearing down the unjust and unfair barriers that
have prevented the full realization of the human rights of LGBT
persons. We know there is more to do, but here, the arc of history
is bending towards justice,” he said.
“In many places around the world,
however, trends are running in the opposite direction. LGBT
individuals and their allies are harassed, arrested, and even killed
because of who they are and the work they do. Governments are
enacting laws that discriminate against LGBT individuals and their
allies and restrict their fundamental human rights. The United
States strongly condemns these discriminatory acts and legislation
and is working every day, both here in Washington and at our
embassies and consulates around the world, to ensure that all persons
can exercise their human rights, regardless of their sexual
orientation or gender identity.”
“We raise the human rights of LGBT
persons both publicly and privately, and we support civil society
organizations who are working on the frontlines to ensure equality
and dignity for all. Through the Global Equality Fund – a
partnership supported by 14 like-minded governments, foundations,
corporations and non-profit organizations – the Department of State
has allocated more than $9 million for both emergency and long term
LGBT-related programming in more than 50 countries worldwide.”
“This important work, done in
conjunction with allies from civil society, faith communities, the
private sector and other governments, is central to our foreign
policy. So, to the activists, allies, and LGBT individuals on the
front lines combating discrimination, you have a partner in the
United States. I stand with you and I wish you safe and happy 2014
Pride celebrations,” Kerry added.