Faith-based organizations have been partnering successfully with the government for years without the need to bypass civil rights laws in providing social services.

When others have shied away, our awardees have shown great commitment in their advocacy for equal rights, ... It is our pleasure to say, 'Thank you for never backing down. Today, we are closer to equality because of your work.'

The nation's government has just handed me the bill that grants us our civil rights. I am receiving it before you, certain that I am accepting this on behalf of all Argentinean women, and I can feel my hands tremble with joy as they grasp the laurel proclaiming victory.

The Human Rights Campaign has been proud to be part of the enormous progress made on the road to equality over the last 25 years, ... While we have miles to go, the national dinner gave us an opportunity to look at the distance we've crossed.

[Joe Solmonese, president of Human Rights Campaign, a national gay-rights advocacy group, said the experience of Washington's outer suburbs underscores changes in attitudes.] We're talking about our community's willingness and comfort level living anywhere, ... And not just our own community, but society's view has changed so much in the last few years.

You spoke with passion for the civil rights
of all Americans — regardless of if they’re gay or straight. Thank you.
Fairness is something that we should all agree on so in many ways this was no
surprise. One day, I hope you’ll even join me on a trip to Capitol Hill to
argue for this basic right,