December 8, 2011 | Sex & Society

US takes stand on international gay rights

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton spoke out in favor of international gay rights at a United Nations summit in Geneva following the US’ declaration that its agencies will challenge the criminalisation of gay acts and LGBT identity overseas.

In the speech she said that  “some seem to believe [homosexuality] is a western phenomenon and therefore people outside the west have grounds to reject it. Well, in reality gay people are born into and belong to every society in the world.

“They are all ages, all races, all faiths, they are doctors and teachers, farmers and bankers, soldiers and athletes.

“Whether we know it, whether we acknowledge it, they are our family, our friends and our neighbours.

“Being gay is not a western invention, it is a human reality.”

During the speech she mentioned the new Global Equality Fund, which would support the work of “civil society organizations” internationally. The Fund would help groups fighting for equality learn how to deal with their country's laws, manage their budgets, and join with other rights groups around the world.

“We have committed more than $3 million to start this fund, and we have hope that others will join us in supporting it,” Clinton said.

"The Obama administration has set a new benchmark for governments in supporting human rights for all," suggested Lance Price, Director of the Kaleidoscope Trust. "[UK Prime Minister] David Cameron must now demonstrate his commitment to defending LGBT rights around the world by throwing Britain’s weight and influence behind this campaign."

While cynics might see the move as throwing a bone to the Obama administration's liberal base, it is truly encouraging to see the US take the high ground on this issue. 

U.S. to Aid Gay Rights Abroad, Obama and Clinton Say [New York Times]