Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Human Rights Campaign Foundation Associate Name A Trans-woman As Director of Diversity

Allyson Robinson Named Human Rights Campaign Foundation Associate Director of Diversity

Longtime activist, ordained minister Robinson to lead organization’s work on transgender issues

WASHINGTON–The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights group, today announced that Allyson Robinson has been named Associate Director of Diversity of the organization. Robinson, a longtime activist and ordained minister, will lead HRC and its volunteer base in promoting awareness of transgender issues and ensuring that all program areas demonstrate measurable commitment to transgender equality and inclusion.

“Allyson is a committed activist for trans people and the people who love them,” said best-selling author Jenny Boylan. “A lot of work needs to be done to mend fences between HRC and the trans community, and Allyson, by dint of her dedication, compassion, and articulate insight, is the one to do it. I am sure her wisdom, poise, and humor will do well for all the members of our community, and I wish her all the best.”

“Allyson is a great addition, and as someone who works closely with HRC nationally and locally, I’m delighted to add her energy to expand the quantity, quality and awareness of fully inclusive workplaces and to support our diversity initiatives in Boston,” said HRC Business Council and Steering Committee member Diego Sanchez.

No matter how much I hate the HRC for what they have done to the trans-community, I am also aware that we have to work with them. We cannot just turn our backs on them, they are a powerful voice in Washington DC and they will not go away so we have no choice but to maintain a détente with them. In addition, I realize that change has to come from within and I hope that this is one of those steps. I wish Allyson and Diego the best of luck.


Update 7/23/08

What would it take me to maybe even start to consider listening to HRC again…
1. The resignation of the Board of Directors and the replacement of it with the new Board made up of at least ¼ Trans
2. Fire Joe Solmonese
3. Hire more trans-people (maybe this is a start)
4. Offer full medical coverage for all of it employees, including SRS
5. Revises the Corporate Index so that in order for a company to get 100% rating they must offer full medical coverage for all of it employees, including SRS to their employees

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