Progressive Muslims United: 5/13/12

Thursday, May 17, 2012

From: "National Gay and Lesbian Task Force" <Media@theTaskForce.org>
Date: May 17, 2012 3:57:28 PM EDT
To: "Faisal Alam" <alam.faisal@gmail.com>
Subject: Task Force applauds first-ever national standards to eliminate sexual abuse in prisons
Reply-To: <Media@theTaskForce.org>

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force National Gay and Lesbian Task Force National Gay and Lesbian Task Force National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

MEDIA CONTACT:

Inga Sarda-Sorensen
Director of Communications
(Office) 646.358.1463
(Cell) 202.641.5592
isorensen@theTaskForce.org

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds first-ever
national standards to eliminate sexual abuse in prisons

In addition, White House announces that immigration detention facilities will soon be required to issue similar regulations

'LGBT people, often the targets of brutality in detention settings, stand much to gain' — Rea Carey, Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

WASHINGTON, May 17 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the Department of Justice's (DOJ) release of the first-ever national standards to eliminate sexual abuse in prisons, jails and other detention settings, as required by the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003. And also, the White House issued a presidential memo announcing that immigration detention facilities will soon be required to issue similar regulations to comply with the Prison Rape Elimination Act.

The regulations establish several critical protections for inmates, and will have a particularly profound impact on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) detainees who remain extremely vulnerable in detention settings.

The standards, which the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force has advocated for, include specialized training for prison staff, and screenings in detention settings to help assess whether an inmate is at higher risk for being targeted for sexual abuse because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. Agencies must also train security staff on respectful searches of transgender inmates; transgender people will not be assigned to a male or female facility based solely on their anatomy but rather on a case-by-case assessment of the inmate's health and safety; and transgender inmates will be given the opportunity to shower separately from other inmates.

The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, through its New Beginning Initiative, has advocated for these humane standards. The Task Force has also been calling on federal officials to ensure that these protections apply to the hundreds of thousands of people — including many LGBT people — housed in immigration detention facilities. The presidential memorandum ensures all federal agencies with detention facilities, including the Department of Homeland Security, will issue regulations to reduce the risk of sexual violence.

Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

"Sexual violence is traumatizing and dehumanizing. No one — and I mean no one — should ever be subjected to this pain and indignity. People in detention settings are particularly vulnerable to this violence, which has been allowed to run rampant.

"By adopting these national standards to prevent, detect and respond to prison rape, the federal government put its foot down and said 'no more.' LGBT people, often the targets of brutality in detention settings, stand much to gain. Lives are literally on the line, and these historic standards will help combat this terrible epidemic and lift our common humanity.

"We applaud DOJ for issuing these standards and the White House for ensuring that similar requirements be issued for immigration detention facilities. The Task Force is dedicated to the rights of those who are unjustly incarcerated and to all inmates' right to live free of sexual assault."

Injustice at Every Turn finds transgender people at risk in detention facilities

Injustice at Every Turn: A Report of the National Transgender Discrimination Survey from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and National Center for Transgender Equality, found that prison abuse was a serious, widespread problem for transgender inmates. The report found alarming rates of such abuse: 15 percent of transgender and gender non-conforming people who had been to jail or prison reported being sexually assaulted by peers or staff. The rate of abuse was far higher for people of color: 34 percent of black respondents and 24 percent of Latino/as were sexually assaulted in jail/prison.

Additionally, 7 percent of transgender people report having been incarcerated simply because of their gender identity/expression, having committed no crime. For people of color, the rate was astonishingly high with 41 percent of black respondents and 21 percent of Latino/as reporting incarceration for being transgender or gender non-conforming. Whether incarcerated or not, 22 percent of respondents who interacted with police reported harassment by police.

To learn more about the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, visit www.theTaskForce.org
and follow us on Twitter: @TheTaskForce.

–30–

The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force builds the power of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community from the ground up. The Task Force is the country's premier social justice organization fighting to improve the lives of LGBT people and working to create positive, lasting change and opportunity for all. The Task Force is a 501(c)(3) corporation incorporated in Washington, D.C. Contributions to the Task Force are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law. © 2012, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, 1325 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Suite 600, Washington, D.C., 20005. Phone 202.393.2241. TTY 202.393.2284. theTaskForce@theTaskForce.org.

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IDAHO actions around the world

contact@dayagainsthomophobia.org

International Day Against
HOMOPHOBIA & TRANSPHOBIA

IDAHO actions around the world - media release (please forward and use for your communications)

May 17, for immediate distribution

1.5 billion people currently live under laws that criminalize same-sex relationships. Today is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO) From United Nations conferences to outlawed demonstrations, hundreds of events are taking place on all continents. 95 countries around the world have seen activists develop actions around May 17

Only a few days ago, President Obama made international headlines by announcing his support for same-sex marriage, and sent a signal of hope and pride to millions of people around the world. Almost at the same time, the Argentinean Senate passed the world's most progressive law on gender identity, allowing people to choose their gender identity without the need for gender reassignment surgery, among other progress.

But while progress in some areas is unfolding, millions of people worldwide are still being denied their basic human rights. Their right to assembly where LGBT organization are outlawed, their right to speech where 'gay gag' laws forbid any reference to homosexuality, their right to health, where discriminatory regulations don't allow fair access to medical services, their right to housing, education, to a family life, and so on; Even their right to life, in the 7 countries where the death penalty can apply for consensual adult same-sex relationships.

As hundreds of organizations around the world mobilize to celebrate the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO), the IDAHO Committee has calculated that the number of people living in the 76 countries which criminalize same-sex relationships totals 1.5 billion.

Today, on May 17, activists nevertheless stand up in the face of these human rights abuses and take action. In Algeria, Bangladesh, Botwana, Uganda or Cameroon, activists mobilize in extremely hostile contexts and the Day often offers the framework for first-ever 'LGBT' events. This year, Burma and Botswana become part of the 95 countries where events mark the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.

In countries where legal dispositions are more favorable, activists unleash their creativity and organize arts contests, songwriting competitions, public sessions to 'vaccinate against homophobia'.

In the meantime, international organizations mobilize to support the cause. UN Human Rights Commissioner Pillay released a video message ahead of the day. Other UN agencies like UNDP, UNAIDS or WHO also mark the day with conferences and declarations. The Pan American office of the World Health Organisation releases a groundbreaking report condemning so-called 'conversion' therapies. In Paris, UNESCO organizes on the eve of IDAHO a day-long international conference on homophobic bullying, as part of the international mobilization on this theme coordinated by the IDAHO Committee. High level political personalities also often join the mobilization at national level, like in Cuba, where President Castro's daughter Mariela leads the annual national IDAHO march.

For all the latest IDAHO news, visit the IDAHO website at http://www.dayagainsthomophobia.org and the IDAHO Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/may17idaho. For information and updates on this year's campaign, "Fighting homo/transphobia IN and THROUGH education - visit the Worldwide Voices Against Homophobic and Transphobic Bullying Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/VoicesAgai....

For more information, contact media@dayagainsthomophobia.org Media contacts : International : Joel Bedos (English, French, German) + 33 664715921 - Robbie Garner (English) + 63 9184354582 (English) Latin America : Jandira Queiroz (Spanish, Portuguese, English) + 55 21 81163791 – Fernando D'Elio (Spanish, English) + 54 11 3462 0664 USA : Ryan Olson + 1 303 5878126 (English)

Editor: Day Against Homophobia
http://dayagainsthomophobia.org

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Fwd: Task Force slams U.S. House passage of Violence Against Women Act that removes coverage for LGBT people

Begin forwarded message:

From: "National Gay and Lesbian Task Force" <Media@theTaskForce.org>
Date: May 16, 2012 5:40:06 PM EDT
To: "Faisal Alam" <alam.faisal@gmail.com>
Subject: Task Force slams U.S. House passage of Violence Against Women Act that removes coverage for LGBT people
Reply-To: <Media@theTaskForce.org>

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force National Gay and Lesbian Task Force National Gay and Lesbian Task Force National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

MEDIA CONTACT:

Inga Sarda-Sorensen
Director of Communications
(Office) 646.358.1463
(Cell) 202.641.5592
isorensen@theTaskForce.org

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force slams U.S. House passage of Violence Against Women Act that removes coverage
for LGBT people

WASHINGTON, May 16 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force expressed outrage at the U.S. House's passage of an amended Violence Against Women Act reauthorization bill that removes explicit protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) victims of domestic violence. It also fails to include protections found in the Senate version related to Native Americans, immigrants and college students.

The Senate approved the reauthorization of an intact and inclusive Violence Against Women Act last month in a 68 to 31 vote. The White House issued a veto threat yesterday of the House GOP version, saying it is unacceptable.

The 1994 federal law provides funds to enhance investigation and prosecution of violent crimes such as domestic violence and sexual assault, and it bolsters victim services programs. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund is among a broad coalition of organizations that has been lobbying for inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity in the law.

Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

"Does the House Republican leadership have no shame? Obviously not. Once again, they're up there on the Hill, sitting in their cushy offices — paid for by taxpayers, I might add — making bad decisions about regular people's lives. This time, it's victims of domestic violence who will suffer because of these obstructionist shenanigans.

"To be the target of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking — whether perpetrated by a stranger or an intimate partner — is terrifying and traumatic. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are not immune from this violence, and their distress should not be exacerbated by a lack of proper response from service providers or law enforcement. Imagine being assaulted, scared and in pain — and then also being turned away from receiving basic services and care.

"The Violence Against Women Act passed by the Senate and supported by the White House is a model bill designed to meet the needs of all victims of domestic violence in the country. The House version coldly and unnecessarily puts people at risk at a time when they are most vulnerable. Whether it's access to health care or access to life-saving services, House leadership keeps turning their backs on the people, and on our common humanity. This is unacceptable. We urge the conference committee to put the critical provisions for LGBT people and our families back into the bill."

To learn more about the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, visit www.theTaskForce.org
and follow us on Twitter: @TheTaskForce.

–30–

The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund builds the grassroots political power of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. The Task Force Action Fund does this through direct and grassroots lobbying to defeat anti-LGBT ballot initiatives and legislation, and works to pass pro-LGBT legislation and other progressive initiatives. The Task Force Action Fund is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit corporation incorporated in New York. Contributions to the Task Force Action Fund are not tax-deductible.

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Fwd: International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

Begin forwarded message:

From: "IGLHRC: International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission" <iglhrc@iglhrc.org>
Date: May 16, 2012 8:00:36 PM EDT
To: alam.faisal@gmail.com
Subject: International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia
Reply-To: iglhrc@iglhrc.org

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The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission Recognizes

International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

For Immediate Release
May 16, 2012

Media Contact: Brian Tofte-Schumacher
212.430.6015, brian@iglhrc.org

Statement from Jessica Stern, Acting Executive Director,
International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission

On the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO), May 17, 2012, we recognize the tireless work of human rights defenders around the globe. In the face of harsh discrimination and persistent human rights violations, activists and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people everywhere demonstrate extraordinary resilience.

At the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC), we are honored to partner with LGBT human rights defenders from Asia and Pacific Islands, Latin America and the Caribbean, the Middle East and North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa who work to end homophobia and transphobia in their communities.

By collaborating with colleagues and partners to document and report specific examples of homophobic or transphobic violence and discrimination to key human rights bodies, including the United Nations, we envision a world where one day the human rights of everyone, everywhere, are honored, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

On this day, we recognize three important advances in human rights for LGBT people in Argentina and Chile. These advances are a direct result of the resilience and hard work of LGBT human rights defenders there.

Argentina Adopts Ground-breaking Rights for Transgender Individuals

In Argentina, recent passage of what may be the most progressive gender identity law in history had human rights advocates celebrating worldwide. The law gives self-identified transgender people access to crucial services without the need for medical intervention and provides for specific human rights protections. Argentina's Senate passed the law on May 9th, with 55 votes in favor, one abstention and no votes against.

The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission enthusiastically applauded the legislation. Acting Executive Director Jessica Stern said, "Argentina has set a new benchmark for protecting and recognizing the human rights of transgender individuals. I congratulate the advocates who worked over many years, with sustained strength, careful strategy and diverse unity to make this legislation a reality. All too often, transgender people are subject to violent hate crimes and denied education, housing, healthcare and employment. Governments around the world should follow Argentina's lead and implement progressive legislation to protect the rights of transgender people everywhere."

Inter-American Court Upholds LGBT Rights in Historic Ruling

On March 20, 2012, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights condemned the Government of Chile for its 2003 Supreme Court ruling which stripped Karen Atala, a lesbian mother and judge, of custody of her three daughters on the basis of her sexual orientation. The 2003 ruling determined that if her daughters remained in her custody, they would be in a "situation of risk" due to their "unique family." This is the first time the Inter-American Court of Human Rights has ever heard a case specifically regarding sexual orientation or gender identity. For more information, see IGLHRC's full press release.

Chile Advances Anti-Hate Crime Legislation

On May 9th, Chile passed anti-discrimination legislation that had been languishing in lawmaker's hands for 7 years. The law, which passed in the wake of the homophobic murder of young Chilean, Daniel Zamudio, enables people to file anti-discrimination lawsuits and adds hate-crime sentences for violent crimes. Passed by a vote of 25-3, according to the Washington Post, the law was hailed by gay activists and government officials alike.

More about International Day Against Homophobia Events Taking Place Around the World

Ging Cristobal, Project Coordinator for Asia and Pacific Islands has gathered a list of IDAHO celebrations happening in Cambodia, Hong Kong, Nepal, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Taiwan. For a full listing of these events, visit our website.

The global web portal of International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia has also gathered a comprehensive, interactive listing of world news and events on their website, http://www.dayagainsthomophobia.org

The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC), founded in 1990, is a leading international human rights organization dedicated to improving the lives of people who experience discrimination or abuse on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. We are dedicated to strengthening the capacity of the LGBT human rights movement worldwide to conduct documentation of LGBT human rights violations and by engaging in human rights advocacy with partners around the globe. We work with the United Nations, regional human rights monitoring bodies and civil society partners. IGLHRC holds consultative status at the United Nations as a recognized Non-Governmental Organization representing the concerns and human rights of lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender people worldwide. For more information about the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission visit: www.iglhrc.org.

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IGLHRC · 80 Maiden Lane, Suite 1505 · New York, NY 10038
phone: +1 (212) 430-6054 · fax: +1 (212) 430-6060 · www.iglhrc.org

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