Join GLIFAA for the first time on Facebook!
Remember you need a Facebook account to access this site. This
is just another way to meet and interact with GLIFAA members (it is a
members-only Facebook Group).
Furthermore, if you choose not
to use Facebook, please know that all information and events will be
available first in the newsletter.
|
|
Greetings!
Hope you have taken the time to vote today!
Save The Date! GLIFAA's holiday party will be December 13. Look for more information soon.
-The GLIFAA Board
|
Help GLIFAA Keep Accurate Records
Update your information within Constant Contacts
GLIFAA has re-vamped the information it is collecting for GLIFAA members. Please visit here, enter your email address, and click on the link in the email you will receive to update your information (this is how you initially signed up for GLIFAA's mailing list). Or you can also go to the bottom of this email and click on "Update Profile/Email Address." Also! We are attempting to compile a database of LGBT members with children. Please email Ajit Joshi directly if you have Children.
Please answer the new questions (less than 10) and help us better understand our membership!
BE AWARE: The fields will auto-populate with your old information (and information that does not correspond with the new field name).
Thanks so much!
-The GLIFAA Board |
Upcoming Events
HRC Election Night Watch Party
Join HRC at Cap City Brewing Company to watch the election results come in!
Capitol City Brewing Co.
2 Massachusetts Ave
Metro: Union Station
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
6:30pm - ? Tickets are $15 at the door and include HRC membership
------------------------------------------------------------
Freeheld: Academy-Award Winning Documentary about a lesbian police officer
National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and PEN DC Presents
NGLCC, PEN DC and award winning Director Cynthia Wade invite you to an exclusive Capitol Hill screening of the 2008 Academy award winning documentary, FREEHELD. Wade's masterpiece chronicles the struggles of police officer Laurel Hester during the biggest challenges of her life and ultimately, her death - and shows the heartwarming way in which her community rallied around Laurel and her partner to advocate her fair treatment by the city she'd served for so many years as a police officer. To see the trailer of this film please go to www.freeheld.com
After the film, attendees are invited to hear from Director Cynthia Wade during a Q&A session about the filming of FREEHELD.
Rayburn House Office Building
Room 2168
Metro: Capitol South
Thursday, November 6, 2008
5:00 - 6:00pm Reception, 6:00 - 7:30pm Screening
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q Street Presents:
Post-Election Lunch Panel
RSVP Now! Limited Space available
Top political experts discuss the results of the election
Speakers:
- Chuck Wolfe, President and CEO, Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund
- Josh Ulibarri, Partner, Lake Research Partners
- A senior advisor from the Obama/McCain Campaigns
Prix Fixe Menu $30
To Start: Guacamole with corn tortillas, chips & salsa
Entrée: Choice of Chicken Quesadilla OR Enchiladas Rancheras (spinach and mushroom), both served with rice and refried black beans
Dessert: Flan de coco, Served with Iced Tea
Margaritas and other drinks available at the bar for individual purchase; If you have a special dietary restriction, please let us know and we will work with the restaurant to accommodate you.
574 7th Street NW
Metro: Gallery Place, Chinatown
Friday, November 14, 2008
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Washington DC Policy Circle:
New Social Science Research on LGBT Parenting
Email Ajit Joshi if you are a GLIFAA member with Children
· Jennifer Chrisler, Executive Director, Family Equality Council
· Nanette Gartrell, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, Center of Excellence in Women's Health, University of California, San Francisco
· Nan Hunter, Legal Scholarship Director, Williams Institute, Professor of Law, Georgetown University
University of California Washington Center
1608 Rhode Island Ave. NW
Metro: Dupont Circle
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
6:00pm - 7:00pm
RSVP or info Email Deseree Fontenot at williamsinstitute@law.ucla.edu |
Help Update Member of Household Policies!
Policy Director Ajit Joshi If your post's current Member of Household (MOH) policy does not appear on the internal MOH post website, Click here to go to State's Internal web, please send your post's most current MOH policy to Augie Paculdar at paculdara@state.gov so that M/DGHR/FLO can update the MOH website.
|
|
Interested in Running for the AFSA Board??
GLIFAA needs your help to build representation for LGBT rights
GLIFAA Board is asking GLBT and allies who are members of the American Foreign Service Association to run for the AFSA Governing Board. If you know someone who would be a good candidate, encourage that person to submit his name to AFSA Executive Director John Mammone (mammone@afsa.org) and to AFSA Election Committee coordinator Barbara Berger (berger@afsa.org). And email GLIFAA President Michelle Schohn (jmschohn@aol.com) so that she's aware of the candidacy as well.
The State and USAID Rep positions are a minimal time commitment - one meeting a month. The VP positions are full-time assignments, and therefore a much bigger chance to shape AFSA's priorities. Candidates should be posted to Washington so that they can attend AFSA meetings. Help us find as many nominees as we can!
After the nomination deadline has passed, GLIFAA plans to ask all AFSA Governing Board candidates about LGBT issues, and we will publish their answers.
We know the Foreign Service to be a supportive work environment, where we are surrounded by straight allies who truly care about us and the discrimination (and oftentimes exile) we are forced to suffer simply because of whom we love. We know next year's AFSA board can reflect that community, but we need the support of allies on the AFSA Board.
For more information and background about GLIFAA's work with AFSA please email GLIFAA Member Selim Ariturk.
|
State Improves Afghanistan Benefits - For Heterosexual Families Only
The new ASRP allows for heterosexual families to remain in post housing
You may have seen the GLIFAA press release on the 4th of July in which we highlighted the inequities between the benefits package offered to straight family members of FSOs headed to Iraq and the benefits offered to partners who are not able to form a marriage that is recognized by the Department (in case you missed it, here's a link.
Since then, State has decided to improve the benefits package for those willing to serve in Afghanistan. But yet again, State decided to make the improvements only for employees with heterosexual partners (see State 099687).
The key benefit appears in the summary paragraph: "Employees volunteering for service in Afghanistan during the Summer 2009 assignment cycle may, in the Department's discretion, be detailed from an overseas post and allowed to leave family members at current post of assignment." But as we saw with the Iraq Service Recognition Package (ISRP), the word "family" is once again defined in such a way as to exclude same-sex partners. It doesn't matter if you were married in your own church, your own state, or anywhere for that matter. The free housing at your current post is only available if your marriage is one of those being "defended" by the "Defense of Marriage Act."
GLIFAA again calls upon the Department to immediately revisit the definition of "Eligible Family Member" (EFM) and end the second-class recognition given to same-sex partners through the "Member of Household" (MOH) status.. When a Foreign Service Officer is serving her nation in an active war zone while her partner worries at a kitchen table thousands of miles away, it is both inaccurate and insulting for the Department to claim that these two are still "members" of the same "household." They are a family - and a family that defends the nation is a family the nation must defend.
|
GLIFAA News Update - Busy October!!
From the Policy Director, Ajit Joshi I'm pleased to share with you some exciting developments during October 2008! The board continues to thrive and to be busy. As you saw in our interim update, USAID issued a National Coming Out Day Proclamation. This is particularly noteworthy as it was issued by the third highest USAID official. Second, the Board and AFSA jointly submitted a letter to the Homeland Security Government Affairs Committee supporting the issues outlined in the Domestic Partner Obligations Act. This is another historic first for the Board. We have not, to our knowledge, submitted testimony "for the record" jointly with AFSA. Please see our letter below. Finally, as a follow up to our meeting with the DG, we recently learned that MOHs are eligible to enroll in Rosetta Stone language training through the employee's CDO. With Rosetta Stone, FSI has purchased a set number of passwords from the vendor; when anyone (employee, EFM, MOH) asks to enroll in the training, FSI must be within their number of purchased passwords/licenses to issue a password to the MOH. If FSI receives a request from an employee and FSI has exhausted all available passwords, FSI will not be able to enroll anyone until they have passwords available that are not being used. Passwords are good for a minimum of 90 days. To enroll, the employee should contact their CDO. GLIFAA Halloween Meeting Notes
- Kerri Hannan welcomed a dozen members to GLIFAA's monthly meeting at 6:30 on October 29, 2008 and asked Ajit Joshi to give a report on gay/lesbian charities for the Combined Federal Campaign. Ajit and Bob Gilchrist recommended especially IGLHRC, but the full list will be in the next newsletter.
- Intern Joshua Jones reported that GLIFAA's participation in the AIDS Walk raised $1200.
- Bob Gilchrist described the legal/policy committee's meetings with AFSA on visa and other issues. Regulations governing Eligible Family Members (EFM) apparently are just that, which means they can be redefined to include same-sex partners. GLIFAA could then turn its attention from the MoH issue to EFMs. The transition team to the new Administration will need to be apprised of this and other matters as soon as possible.
- Members discussed whether dropping the MoH issue was a good idea, as it has been a useful means of gaining allies, particularly in AFSA. It was decided to submit a memo to the transition team, which would encourage the new Administration to give guidance to L on GLIFAA's issues. Under Secretary Kennedy (M), as GLIFAA's mentor, should be shown a draft for his comment.
- Under new business, Joshua described the venue for GLIFAA's holiday party, which will be held from 7:30 until ?? on December 13 at the Universalist Church in the 1700 block of 16th Street, N.W. The church will charge GLIFAA only $400 and will permit some alcoholic beverages. Joshua will need help to decorate and otherwise organize the event.
- Y-PRO would like to coöperate in a social-professional event, perhaps including Under Secretary Kennedy. Putting a flyer in the Y-PRO newsletter will enable us to reach new potential members.
- Ajit gave an update on policy questions. AFSA and GLIFAA submitted a joint letter to the Homeland Security Committee discussing MoH, Don't Ask/Don't Tell, and other issues. Michelle Schohn described a degree of disappointment with AFSA's attitude, despite the favorable result, and discussion ensued about once again finding a GLIFAA member to run for the AFSA Board if a spot is available on a slate.
- Ajit noted that the promised sensitivity training for new USAID officers is not occurring.
- Kerri reported that the update of the bye-laws is nearly complete, and they will be distributed soon to the membership for approval. Members discussed the meeting schedule, and agreed to attempt to meet regularly on the last Wednesday of every month as well as scheduling a Happy Hour or dinner monthly.
|
GLIFAA AIDS Walk Team Raises $1200
Joshua Jones, GLIFAA Intern
On Saturday, October, 4 GLIFAA participated in its first ever AIDS Walk and raised over $1,200. AIDS Walk Washington was a 5K fund-raising walk/run benefiting and produced by Whitman-Walker Clinic. Whitman-Walker Clinic is a non-profit community-based health organization composed of volunteers and staff who provide dependable, high-quality, comprehensive and accessible health care to those infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS.
GLIFAA also got support from S/OCR and S/GAC in sponsoring the event. In total there were 15 walkers with us and some not even in a foreign affairs agency but happen to like and support our organization. The event was organized by Yours Truly the GLIFAA intern and members of the E-Board, specifically Kerri Hannan, who got S/OCR and S/GAC to post information about the event.
Thanks again to all of those who participated by walking, donating, or getting the word out!
|
NEW! GLIFAA Legal and Visa Issues Working Group
Contact Fred Boll (aboll@sydney.net) to get involved!
The Legal and Visa Issues working group had its first meeting on Wednesday, October 8. In attendance were Fred Boll, former GLIFAA President Bob Gilchrist, and GLIFAA Policy Director Ajit Joshi. Fred Boll will be the Chair of the Legal and Visa Issues Working Group. As Chair, Fred is looking for GLIFAA members who have a legal or policy background and are interested in preparing a legal analysis of practical issues confronting GLIFAA members to present to the Department. A legal analysis will include canvassing various stakeholders such as the State Department's Office of Foreign Missions (OFM) that is charged with implementing bilateral agreements. It will include, but is not limited to (1) Foreign Diplomats Obtaining U.S. visas for their partners, (2) FSOs obtaining non-U.S. visas and residence permits for partners, (3) the need for developing a Visa Template to send to post requesting that an MOH is so declared, and (4) the need for a Visa Template to send to DHS requesting that MOH is so recognized.
Meeting Notes/Plans:
- The Legal and Visa Issues working group recommends that GLIFAA meet with GLIFAA's Executive Sponsor or Diversity Mentor, Undersecretary Patrick Kennedy to discuss the following key issues facing our membership: (1) Members of Household, (2) Domestic Partner Benefits and Obligations Act that would apply to FSOs and Civil Service Officers, (3) Areas where the foreign affairs agencies fall short on reaching a 100% score on the HRC Corporate Equality Index that might be new to the Undersecretary, such as Transgender Wellness Benefits (4) Need for an updated non-discrimination statement for contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements that includes sexual orientation and gender identity, (5) Retiree issues, (6) Need for EEO/Diversity Training to robustly include a focus on gender identity and gender expression.
- The group wants to meet with the A/S for DRL David Kramer to recommend that on Human Rights Day in December that a statement be issued to explicitly state that sexual orientation and gender identity/expression are areas that the Department is focusing upon.
- During the far ranging discussion, Bob Gilchrist shared how former A/S for DRL Harold Koh, an ally, was the reason for a greater focus and emphasis on sexual orientation and gender identity/expression in the State Department human rights reports.
- The group plans to have other meetings to triangulate the various concerns - consular issues (Dean Haas) to discuss reciprocity, AFSA's legal team (Zlatana Badrich), and to find someone that knows the laws and policies on EFM - is it a legal term (or not).
- As a separate project, Bob and Fred also promised to develop a GLIFAA monthly calendar for November 2007 through July 2008 that would include a regular meeting. The calendar would also include an alternating happy hour and dinner.
- Since the meeting the Policy Director has asked DG to identify someone in L to be GLIFAA's point of contact. GLIFAA has also outreached to the General Counsel of HRC to find a pro-bono lawyer to help GLIFAA to see if GLIFAA could obtain 501C3 status
- The group also thought it would be a good idea to publish an article in the Foreign Service Journal.
|
GLIFAA Member Promotions!
Congratulations to the following GLIFAA members who have been promoted!
- Robin Brooks
- Keith Gilges
- Mary Glantz
- Jason Lawrence
- Rick Mangus
- Michael Margoleis
- Carl Watson
- Jeff Anderson
- Todd Katschke
- Ryan Matheny
- Ryan Wirtz
|
GLIFAA Cosponsors Event on Homosexuality in Islam
Event Organized by the George Washington University Allied in Pride Organization
Joshua Jones, GLIFAA Intern
On Sunday, October 26th a number of area LGBT and religious groups organized a speaking event at GW on Homosexuality in Islam. It featured Imam Johari Abdul Malik, Director of Outreach at the Dar-al-Hijrah Islamic Center ; Professor Amal Amireh, professor of Women and Gender Studies at George Mason University; Imam Daayiee Abdullah, from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Religious Roundtable; and Hisham Mahmoud, Executive Editor for the Zaytuna Curriculum Series. The panel was moderated by Zahir Jahmohamed, Advocacy Director for The Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International USA. The panel discussed historical and contemporary Muslim attitudes towards sexuality and gender.
There were about 200-300 people in attendance at the event and some 15 police officers standing by incase anything should happen. As one of the panelist pointed out this is a particularly sensitive subject for the Islamic community and the University was not taking chances. The audience was very diverse including many non-Muslims and the Muslims that were there came from different Islamic backgrounds.
As the panel gave their speeches you could immediately see the similarities between Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. All three rely mostly on the story of Lot (Sodom and Gomorrah) as their scriptural evidence and a few minor verses throughout the text. Interestingly enough the Qur'an unlike the Torah or the Bible does not prescribe death for Homosexuals only that they be punished, but, it does not say how.
Aside from some vocabulary that non-Muslims might not know the event was just like any other Judo-Christian discussions on the topic. What made it important is that it is probably the first to happen openly in the Islamic Community specifically for Muslims by Muslims.
|
A New Global Network: Be a GLIFAA Post Representative
FSOs as well as MOHs Welcome to Participate!
"Hi, I'm being transferred to Kerblekistan - are there any GLIFAA members there who could give me info about post?"
We know our members are everywhere, but for too long we haven't had
a way to effectively get information from the field. Our new network
of GLIFAA Post Representatives will fill that void. Even if you are
the only GLIFAA member at post, we hope you'll volunteer. You'll be
called upon everytime we get an email asking for info at post, you'll
join a special listserve for Post Reps worldwide to share best
practices, and you'll serve as a channel for communication to and from
Washington.
The basic time commitment will be extremely minimal (~1 hour/month)
but those interested in doing more certainly can. Help your post's
Human Rights person learn more about conditions for LGBT persons in
your country of assignment, network with Human Rights advocacy groups
stateside or in your country of assignment, help us with our advocacy
work in Washington - whatever interests you.
Make our network truly global - make sure your post volunteers a representative.
|
GLIFAA's Advocacy Campaign Wants Your Story Heard!
We're gearing up for a big year - a new President will be coming in, a new Secretary - and a new Congress! The time to prepare is now. GLIFAA is drafting a series of advocacy materials on issues that affect our members, and nothing is more powerful than a first-hand story. How are you being hurt by the Department's policies? How is your family being hurt by the Defense of Marriage Act? Please write your stories (between 1 paragraph and 1 page) and send them to glifaa@yahoo.com. We'll use them as best we can to get our message across. To get you inspired, here are two stories from other members:
"I was in the Army and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom until March 2005. I joined the Foreign Service in October 2005, and soon after shipped out to India with my partner Ales. I'm due to return to Washington for eight months of language training, and the cost of plane tickets aside, I'm worried that Ales won't even be allowed to enter the country for the full eight months, because he can only qualify for an ordinary tourist visa. All I ask is for us to enter my country together - the same country I fought for in Iraq and the same country I still love and serve today."
- Vice-Consul Ralan Hill, currently serving in Kolkata, India
"When my partner landed in Chicago, Immigration grilled him for two hours. They accused him of being illegal, overstaying, you name it. They found my business card in his luggage and demanded an explanation - as if it was inappropriate for him to have it. He patiently explained the situation numerous times, and was eventually released - but with permission to stay for only three months. Incidentally, two of my colleagues from Sao Paulo met their [opposite-sex] spouses after JP and I met. They both are now U.S. citizens traveling on Diplomatic passports."
- Foreign Service Officer Keith Gilges, currently serving in Washington, DC
|
FSO or MOH Blogging?!
Michelle Schohn is looking for FSOs and/or MOHs with blogs about their experiences abroad!
The MOH Network has been having a lively discussion on Yahoo-Groups and the Board encorages MOHs to participate! Email moderator Emil.Stalis@tufts.edu if you cannot access the homepage of the network Please provide identifying information (employee of which organization, or MOH of which employee who is at which organization) so that you can be verified prior to being part of the group.
For those of wanting to "institutionalize" your experiences, here is one great example: lifeafterjerusalem.blogspot.com.
Michelle Schohn is looking to create links from her blog to any of the blogs of other FSOs and/or MOHs, in particular who have stories about MOH issues. If you have a blog and are willing to let Michelle put a link to your blog on her blog, please email her.
"The MOH Network" is a discussion group for all individuals who fall into the classification of Members of Household as defined in 3 FAM 4180 and their partners/sponsors. A MOH is anyone accompanying a Foreign Service Officer to post. This includes parents, partners, (opposite sex, same sex), and children over age 21. In other words-anyone who is not mentioned on an officer's orders. The MOH Network is a venue for MOHs to seek out resources and information. It is also a place for individuals to share strategies, vent frustration and most important - find support.
Employees are requested to please share this information with their family members.
Sign up: MOH_Network-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Contact:
Member_of_Household@yahoo.com
|
| Did you serve in Iraq or Afghanistan??
GLIFAA would like to compile a list of GLBT members who have served in Iraq or Afghanistan. Even if you feel that you do not want to provide your name, please let us know so you can be counted. This type of information will help show our leadership the committment that gay members have to our work - as well as show a real need to provide equal treatment. Please email glifaa@yahoo.com
| |
Statement by American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) President John Naland and Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies (GLIFAA) President J. Michelle Schohn
Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Subject: Domestic Partner Benefits and Obligations Act S. 2521 and
H.R. 4838
Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Collins and distinguished members of the committee, our names are John K. Naland, President of AFSA, and Michelle Schohn, President of GLIFAA, and we are submitting this statement on behalf of the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) and Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies (GLIFAA).
We are very pleased to submit the following statement on the Domestic Partner Benefits and Obligations Act for inclusion in the committee's record on this very important matter.
Upon review of S. 2521 and H.R. 4838, the American Foreign Service Association and Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies wish to convey our support for the important issues raised in these bills. The following story, written by a Foreign Service officer serving our country overseas, exemplifies why it is so critically important that we focus on equity and fairness:
"My partner accompanied me to three overseas posts and, like many spouses, he sacrificed advancement in his own career in order to do so. Unlike other families, however, we paid for his transportation to and from post and home leave, the lawyer's fees for his visa, his tickets to travel with me on rest-and-recreation leave, his language training, his immunizations and medical tests, and his medical evacuation insurance. Unlike other couples, we went without separate maintenance allowances and augmented foreign transfer allowances, post cost-of-living allowances and air freight allowance. Nor were we eligible for group health insurance. And at one post, we were permanently assigned to a one-bedroom apartment despite being a couple.
"My partner faced the indignity of being searched and escorted every time he entered the mission, was barred from dependent jobs (despite being the most qualified), was denied access to the commissary to do our shopping, was not included in embassy hail-and-farewell receptions, and was not allowed to participate in the Foreign Service Institute's Security Overseas Seminar. He could not benefit from my pension, and would not receive the small courtesy of being notified by the State Department if his parents died while he was overseas as a result of my service."
"It amazes me that some opponents worry we became partners on a whim or to get some free ride. We put up with these conditions because we love each other and we love being in the Foreign Service. How many heterosexuals would ever tolerate such treatment of their families?"
Another FSO recently told us that he has had to pay $30,000 in emergency health care costs, out of pocket, for his uninsured domestic partner. Such incidents, which are all too common, demonstrate how vital it is that domestic partners, both overseas and abroad, receive government-provided health insurance and enhanced dental and vision benefits.
One FSO, who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom during his time in the Army, said he would not be able to support his domestic partner if he served in Iraq again, this time as a Foreign Service officer. Because he and many others want to serve our country's important foreign policy interests by serving in dangerous places, we support granting those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan a separate maintenance allowance that would enable a domestic partner to remain in post housing while the employee is serving in a war zone or in other critical-need countries, as many of our members are.
Yet another FSO told us a story that describes the humiliation that many of our diplomats face when returning to the U.S. with their loved ones. He shared with us this story: When he and his partner "landed in Chicago, immigration agents grilled him for two hours. They accused him of being illegal, overstaying, you name it. They found my business card in his luggage and demanded an explanation - as if it was inappropriate for him to have it. He patiently explained the situation numerous times, and was eventually released - but with permission to stay for only three months. Incidentally, two of my colleagues from [my previous post] met their [opposite-sex] spouses after [my partner] and I met. They both are now U.S. citizens traveling on diplomatic passports." We therefore support another provision in these two bills that will provide diplomatic passports and status for domestic partners.
Finally, we simply believe in fairness and equity. The cost of transporting a pet when moving overseas should no longer weighed more importantly than the cost of transporting a partner. So we support the provision in these bills that includes domestic partners in household-size calculations for housing assignments, cost of living allowances, miscellaneous transfer allowances and home service transfer allowances.
We recognize that there is more work to be done to achieve full equity and fairness. For example, none of these bills would address the Military Readiness Act to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." We also recognize that these bills do not explicitly apply to all aspects of the State Department's "Member of Household" category, which also includes opposite-sex partners, adult children, and aging parents. Nor would they benefit the uniformed personnel with whom we serve in war zones.
We continue to urge the State Department to address the issues identified in a February 21, 2008, letter to Secretary Rice from Representatives Tammy Baldwin (D-WI 2), Howard Berman (D-CA 28), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL 18), and Gary Ackerman (D-NY 5) on issues that "could be handled through internal regulatory changes and would not require congressional action" and are not "contrary to the letter or spirit of the Defense of Marriage Act." The representatives suggested that "these changes might be efficiently addressed through the inclusion of same-sex domestic partners under the definition of an EFM [Eligible Family Member.]" We note that the DPBO does not address any of the following that the representatives identified in their letter and which continue to be problems for our employees:
· Travel Orders: Same-sex domestic partners may not currently be included on and employee's travel orders;
· Training: Same-sex domestic partners do not have access to the same training provided to "eligible family members" (current policy forces domestic partners into shortened "FAST" language courses);
· Evacuation: Same-sex domestic partners are not eligible for government-funded emergency and medical evacuation from post;
· Medical Care: Same-sex domestic partners do not have access to post medical facilities, regional medical units and visiting regional medical officers;
· Overseas Visas: Same-sex domestic partners are not assured of post support in obtaining visas, and work permits where applicable, when going overseas with an employee;
· U.S. Visas: Non-citizen same-sex domestic partners are not assured of firm department support in obtaining visas to accompany officers and specialists to postings in the United States; and
· Employment Preference: Same-sex domestic partners are not offered employment opportunities at posts on the same basis as married spouses, and are in some cases specifically excluded from such opportunities.
We further believe the following three items, although not specifically mentioned by the representatives, could similarly be achieved without congressional action:
· Mail: Allow access to the diplomatic pouch and APO/FPO mail services for same-sex domestic partners;
· Badges/ID: Issue embassy ID cards and compound access for same-sex domestic partners on a basis equivalent to that used to issue them to married spouses; and
· Unaccompanied Tour Support: Permit same-sex domestic partners to join "family left behind" support groups.
We also note that these bills do not include the provisions of the Uniting American Families Act (S. 1328 and H.R. 2221) in terms of granting immigration sponsorship rights for "permanent partners" equivalent to those provided to married spouses so they may go abroad as American citizens, allowing Foreign Service officers to serve in Washington without visa worries for their partners, and allowing Foreign Service retirees to come home to the United States with their permanent partners.
While the Domestic Partner Benefits and Obligations Act (S. 2521 and H.R. 4838) does not cover all of the issues we deem necessary to recruit and retain the best and the brightest in the Foreign Service and Civil Service of the foreign affairs agencies, we support the issues outlined in these bills as a major step in achieving equity and fairness for those serving our country.
Thank you for your consideration of this matter.
John Naland, President J. Michelle Schohn, President
American Foreign Service Association Gays and Lesbians in Foreign
Affairs Agencies
|
CFC GLBT-related Charities
Support CFC!
Visit www.cfcnca.org for more information.
Performing Arts Association.
FCPAA educates about the gay experience and affirms the place of gay people in society through excellence in musical entertainment.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 56791. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1245241. Phone Number: (202)293-1548. Website Address: www.gmcw.org. Overhead: 16.0%. Program Areas: A.
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbian and Gays of the Metro DC Area.
Metro DC PFLAG provides support to individuals and families, education for businesses, government, religious, and civic organizations, and conducts advocacy to end discrimination.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 12944. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1348642. Phone Number: (202)638-3852. Website Address: www.pflagdc.org. Overhead: 25.0%. Program Areas: R.
National Center for Lesbian Rights.
Through impact litigation, public policy advocacy, public education and direct legal services, NCLR advances the legal and human rights of LGBT people and their families.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 11318. Employer Identification Number: EIN #94-3086885. Phone Number: (415)392-6257. Website Address: www.nclrights.org. Overhead: 21.5%. Program Areas: R W P.
Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League.
SMYAL is the only Washington, DC metro area service organization solely dedicated to supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 46119. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1394900. Phone Number: (202)546-5940. Website Address: www.smyal.org. Overhead: 21.7%. Program Areas: Z.
Dignity Washington, Inc..
An organization of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered Catholics, our families and friends, sponsoring spiritual development, education, human support and social programs.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 46786. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1154012. Phone Number: (202)546-2235. Website Address: www.dignitywashington.org. Overhead: 19.1%. Program Areas: X P R.
Equality Maryland Foundation, Inc..
We seek to make life better for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Marylanders through education, research, community organizing, training and coalition building.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 28644. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-2039411. Phone Number: (301)587-7500. Website Address: www.equalitymaryland.org. Overhead: 24.2%. Program Areas: P R W.
Gay & Lesbian Leadership Institute.
The Gay & Lesbian Leadership Institute provides educational and training opportunities for LGBT public leaders, including those who are considering running for office.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 48328. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1835268. Phone Number: (202)628-9151. Website Address: www.glli.org. Overhead: 10.1%. Program Areas: R S W.
Lesbian and Gay Chorus of Washington, D.C., Inc..
Annually provides 300 tickets to more than 40 organizations working with HIV/AIDS, cancer, sexual minority youth, the deaf, and others who cannot access the arts.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 30249. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1576833. Phone Number: (202)546-1549. Website Address: www.lgcw.org. Overhead: 16.9%. Program Areas: A.
Leadership Conference on Civil Rights Education Fund.
Educates for nation's civil rights and human rights coalition, representing people of color, women, children, older Americans, people with disabilities, gay rights, workers rights, etc.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 10741. Employer Identification Number: EIN #23-7026895. Phone Number: (202)466-3311. Website Address: www.civilrights.org. Overhead: 12.4%. Program Areas: R V B.
New Ways Ministry.
Addresses discrimination against lesbian/gay persons in the Catholic Church. Promotes attitudinal change and acceptance of lesbian/gay persons through education to combat homophobia.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 11699. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1122608. Phone Number: (301)277-5674. Website Address: www.newwaysministry.org. Overhead: 12.8%. Program Areas: X R Z.
Straight Spouse Network.
Volunteers provide confidential support to current/former straight spouses/partners of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender mates and mixed-orientation couples and educate families about disclosure issues.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 10740. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-2300902. Phone Number: (201)825-7763. Website Address: www.straightspouse.org. Overhead: 52.3%. Program Areas: Z B P.
Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice.
Provides financial support and advocates for organizations throughout the world that work for the human rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgender people.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 10442. Employer Identification Number: EIN #13-2992977. Phone Number: (212)529-8021. Website Address: www.astraeafoundation.org. Overhead: 9.9%. Program Areas: T R S.
CenterLink.
We strengthen local LGBT centers by providing technical assistance, leadership training, networking opportunities and a national voice, thus enhancing the services they provide their communities.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 12483. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-2292725. Phone Number: (202)824-0450. Website Address: www.lgbtcenters.org. Overhead: 10.0%. Program Areas: R S Y.
Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.
GLAAD is dedicated to ensuring fair, accurate and inclusive representations in the media to eliminate homophobia and discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 11743. Employer Identification Number: EIN #13-3384027. Phone Number: (800)429-6334. Website Address: www.glaad.org. Overhead: 22.6%. Program Areas: R W A.
Immigration Equality.
We fight for equal immigration rights for lesbian and gay couples in America and win asylum for persecuted LGBT and HIV+ refugees around the world.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 40016. Employer Identification Number: EIN #13-3802711. Phone Number: (212)714-2904. Website Address: immigrationequality.org. Overhead: 20.2%. Program Areas: R P Q.
International Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission.
Securing the full enjoyment of human rights for all people subject to discrimination or abuse based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or HIV/AIDS status.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 11317. Employer Identification Number: EIN #94-3139952. Phone Number: (212)268-8040. Website Address: www.iglhrc.org. Overhead: 26.7%. Program Areas: R Q W.
Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund.
Achieving recognition of the civil rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and those with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 12482. Employer Identification Number: EIN #23-7395681. Phone Number: (212)809-8585. Website Address: www.lambdalegal.org. Overhead: 30.4%. Program Areas: R O W.
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.
PFLAG supports the health, well-being and equality of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, their family members and friends through support, education and advocacy.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 11948. Employer Identification Number: EIN #95-3750694. Phone Number: (202)467-8180. Website Address: www.pflag.org. Overhead: 28.4%. Program Areas: R P.
Youth Advocacy Coalition, National.
A social justice organization fighting injustice against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth and advocating to ensure their physical and emotional wellbeing.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 11082. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-2054071. Phone Number: (202)319-7596. Website Address: www.nyacyouth.org. Overhead: 27.9%. Program Areas: R P E.
Human Rights Campaign Foundation.
Provides information and resources to educate the public and foster sound public policy to end discrimination against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 11893. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1481896. Phone Number: (800)777-4723. Website Address: www.hrc.org. Overhead: 32.8%. Program Areas: R P S.
Point Foundation, The National Gay & Lesbian Scholarship Fund.
Point Foundation provides financial support, mentoring and hope to meritorious students who are marginalized due to sexual orientation or gender identity.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 11634. Employer Identification Number: EIN #84-1582086. Phone Number: (866)337-6468. Website Address: www.pointfoundation.org. Overhead: 11.6%. Program Areas: O B P.
One in Ten.
OIT is dedicated to education and cultural activism on behalf of LGBT people. We seek to nurture our community's consciousness via art and film.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 74414. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1732965. Phone Number: (202)986-1119. Website Address: www.oneinten.org. Overhead: 17.5%. Program Areas: A W Z.
Triangle Club.
Provides safe and affordable space for Twelve Step Groups in the local LGBT community to meet and foster recovery from addictions and co-dependent behaviors.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 92219. Employer Identification Number: EIN #52-1649139. Phone Number: (202)659-8641. Website Address: www.triangleclub.org. Overhead: 5.7%. Program Areas: E F G.
GLSEN.
A national education organization addressing anti-LGBT bullying and harassment to make American schools safe for all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
CFC # code, used for making designations: 12190. Employer Identification Number: EIN #04-3234202. Phone Number: (212)727-0135. Website Address: www.glsen.org. Overhead: 30.8%. Program Areas: B O R.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
