State Department Creates Special Envoy for LGBT Rights

By Courtney Cox

For the first time in United States history, the State Department created a special envoy to promote the universal human rights of LGBTs. Randy Berry, a Foreign Service officer stationed in the Netherlands, has been appointed for the special position. According to NPR,  Secretary of State John Kerry claimed that Berry’s position will primarily serve to “reaffirm the universal human rights of all persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.” More specifically, Berry will be charged with combating foreign countries’ efforts to criminalize same-sex activity. The creation of the post is consistent with the Obama administration’s desire to promote LGBT rights at home and abroad.