We are proud to join you - Joining You With Pride

This summer, in cities around the world, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community and its friends are planning marches, lectures, film screenings, athletic events and parties to celebrate Pride. Here in Hungary, Pride Week attracts all kinds of people whose participation demonstrates their commitment to building a society that values the contributions of all of its citizens, regardless of *** orientation. Pride is truly a celebration of diversity and I send my best wishes to the organizers of the 2012 Budapest Pride Film Festival for focusing on the theme of diversity this year. In the United States, President Obama declared June to be Pride Month to highlight the contributions of LGBT Americans and underscore America’s tradition of advancing the civil rights of minority groups. The Obama Administration has taken considerable steps in recognizing LGBT rights, including repealing the U.S. military policy of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,”. As Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has said, “The story of America is the story of people coming together to tear down barriers, stand up for rights and insist on equality, not only for themselves but for all people.” As a longtime resident of San Francisco, I have seen firsthand the work of advocates who support LGBT rights and human rights. Over time, San Francisco has become a vibrant example of vibring LGBT community, and I have seen how the city is better for it. Pride Week is a time not only to look back and remember how far the LGBT community has come, but also to look ahead and identify the very real challenges that LGBT people around the world face. The United States and Hungary have made strides in preserving universal human rights, but more hurdles must be overcome. I admire the courage and perseverance of the Hungarian LGBT community against adversity and I stand with you all on this journey to raise awareness of the value of diversity and the acceptance of LGBT rights as human rights.