Celebrating the Next Generation of LGBT Leaders

On Wednesday, the Vice President and Dr. Biden hosted an “End of Summer BBQ” at the Vice President’s Residence with emerging young leaders of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. They were joined by senior Obama Administration officials, leaders of national LGBT organizations, and campus and community leaders from all over the country.

Guests at the event represented tremendous diversity and talent within the LGBT community. They included students and community organizers, advocates and artists, and veterans – all committed to the pursuit of equality, justice, and dignity for LGBT people. 

Vice President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden speak at a reception with emerging young leaders of the LGBT community at the Naval Observatory Residence in Washington, D.C., September 19, 2012. (Official White House Photo by David Lienemann)

In welcoming guests to the Residence, Dr. Biden took a moment to acknowledge the one-year anniversary of the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and thanked all our brave young men and women in uniform – and their families – for their service. In his remarks, the Vice President spoke to his own commitment to civil rights, and paid tribute to the many advocates and heroes who have helped pave the way towards a more perfect union.

While at the Residence, guests also had the opportunity to view several panels of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, which were provided by The NAMES Project Foundation. Earlier this year, a section of the Quilt was put on display in the East Wing of the White House and Dr. Biden also viewed several panels of the Quilt at the National Building Museum.

Gautam Raghavan is an Associate Director of Public Engagement