Obama Praised For Rights Commission Pick

WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign is lauding President Obama’s appointment of Roberta Achtenberg to serve on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. Achtenberg was the first openly gay or lesbian person to be confirmed to a government position by the Senate.

“Roberta Achtenberg is a public servant of the highest caliber and will be a critical voice on the commission in ensuring that the civil rights of all Americans are protected,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “LGBT equality is the civil rights issue of our time and this position will allow her to bring our community’s concerns front and center in the national dialogue.”

President Clinton appointed Achtenberg to be Assistant Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development in 1993. Prior to that she was a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and had an illustrious career as a civil rights attorney. She is also a co-founder of the National Center for Lesbian Rights.

“President Obama has made a wonderful selection in Roberta Achtenberg,” added Solmonese. “A true advocate of fairness and equality for all people, this new position will allow her to use her talents in furtherance of our country’s highest aspirations.”

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.