Project Launched
to Promote LGBT Presidential Appointments

The Gay and Lesbian Leadership Institute on Tuesday announced the formation of the Presidential Appointments Project, a nonpartisan effort intended to increase the number of LGBT professionals qualified to accept appointed positions in the next presidential administration.

"Our goal is to make sure all Americans have an equal voice in their government," Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the institute, said in a press release. "Through public service, our community demonstrates a commitment to making our country a better place for all its citizens and for every kind of family."

The project will make it easier for the next president to consider talented LGBT people, according to Ambassador James Hormel, who became the first openly gay ambassador when he was appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1999.

"We also need to say to the next president, 'We're ready to serve and we're ready to lead,'" Hormel said. "The next administration must know that we are concerned about being included, determined to contribute our talents, skills, and insights, and eager to participate in the hard work of governing our country."

The Human Rights Campaign, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, and the National Stonewall Democrats will work with the institute on the project. Potential appointees can submit an application at www.glli.org/presidential. (The Advocate)