Take Action Latest Update: January 27, 2009 Support Equal Benefits for Same-Sex Partners Send a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton urging her to extend equal benefits to the same-sex partners of foreign policy workers. There are a range of benefits and rights granted to the spouses of State Department staff but which are denied to gay or lesbian partners. For example, same-sex partners are denied paid travel to and from overseas posts, visas and diplomatic passports, and mail privileges. Worse yet, they are even deprived of evacuation in case of a security emergency or medical necessity. This is unacceptable. Gay and lesbian foreign policy workers shouldn't have to choose between their families and service to their country. It's absurd that the State Department will reimburse the cost of transporting a pet overseas but won't do likewise for a same-sex partner. Many other nations already extend a partnership benefit. It's time that the United States caught up with the times. Write to Clinton today and urge her to ensure that equal benefits are extended to all foreign-policy couples. Letters can be sent to: Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton Use our draft letter below or create your own! Dear Secretary of State Clinton, I am writing to urge you to extend equal partnership benefits to gay and lesbian foreign policy workers. Currently, same-sex partners are denied a range of benefits that are granted to spouses of State Department officials stationed overseas. For example, same-sex partners are denied paid travel to and from overseas posts, visas and diplomatic passports, mail privileges, and even evacuation in the event of a security emergency or medical necessity. Gay and lesbian State Department staff should not have to choose between their families and service to their country. Please rectify the current discriminatory policy. Sincerely, [Your Name]
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