Flying across the screen were words “remarkable, incredible, and brilliant” in many articles describing Secretary of State Clinton’s speech the other day on the treatment of homosexuals in foreign nations. When I heard this speech I was in shock, in the most positive way possible. I couldn’t believe it. Neither could most of the United States.

On Wednesday, Hilary Clinton made a speech on LGBT rights in Geneva to the United Nations Human Rights Council. She noted that foreign aid given to other countries by the United States would be analyzed partially based on the country’s reatment of gays and lesbians. Many lesbian and gays were in tears while watching the speech, and felt a glimpse of hope. To watch Clinton’s speech, visit http://thelastword.msnbc.msn.com/.

“I am deeply concerned by the violence and discrimination targeting LGBT persons aaroudn the world,” Obama said. “Whether it is passing laws that criminalize LGBT status, beating citizens simply for joining peaceful LGBT pride celebrations or killing men, women and children for their perceived sexual orientation.” According to Clinton, a program that offers support for LGBT people was created, and each embassy will receive a toolkit in the coming months to make sure that LGBT people are justly treated.

Responses to the speech include increasing support for the Obama Administration. One support of Obama said that his donation to his campaign” just added on another zero.” In addition, LGBT human rights defenders across the world were moved by Clinton’s message, and inspired by the movement to instill human equality and justice for lesbians and gays. http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2011/12/07/LGBT_Activists_from_Around_the_World_React_to_Clintons_Speech/

Watching the speech myself, I was extremely moved. Clinton made such extremely important points, discrimination against gays and lesbians in the world is just as unjust as discrimination due to race, sex, etc. I believe the world will be a more just place after that speech, and foreign nations must change their views on gays and lesbians if they ever expect help from the United States again.  

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