Out Abroad: LGBT, Public Diplomacy and Global Rights

The global attitudes toward homosexuality are changing but remain divided. The panel discussion explored the range – and complexity – of the LGBT issue in the discourse and practice of diplomacy. Speakers offered diplomatic and scholarly perspectives as well as personal experiences. Highlighted topics included:

- The public life of U.S. gay diplomats in global posts
- Multilateral diplomacy and the LGBT movement in the United Nations
- Communicating LGBT issues and tolerance through media outlets
- LGBT as human rights in the global spotlight

The panelists were:

• Rev. Kelby Harrison, Director, USC LGBT Resource Center (moderator)
• Douglas Janoff, Sr. Canadian Diplomat, and Diplomat in Residence, University of Kentucky
• Patrick J. Linehan, CPD Public Diplomat in Residence, Former Consul General at the U.S. Consulate General in Osaka-Kobe, Japan
• Monica Trasandes, Director of Spanish-Language and Latino Media, GLAAD

A special reception preceded the discussion.  The event was co-sponsored by the USC LGBT Resource Center (LBTRC).

The event was livestreamed. A full video of the proceedings can be viewed below:

Live streaming video by Ustream

Click here to read the Daily Trojan's write-up of this special event.