Gay & Lesbian Americans
                             MISSION STATEMENT

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For Immediate Release

Gay and Lesbian Americans (GLA) is a diverse, non-partisan coalition of 
grassroots advocates committed to  civil rights for the gay, lesbian, 
bisexual and transgender people, and to cure for AIDS.
 
Through community-based chapters, GLA will foster a grassroots advocacy 
network to act locally, regionally, and nationally.
 
As  a results oriented organization we seek to end the government 
discrimination against citizens based on sexual orientation.  Our mission 
includes enactment of civilrights legislation, repeal of sodomy laws, and 
funding and research of gay and lesbian 
health issues.
 
To accomplish our goals GLA works to gain the support of Congress, the 
preseident, governors, state legislatures, mayors, city councils, and the 
public.  Strategies include lobbying, advertising, and direct action.
 
We are agrressive and uncompromising in advocating full and equal rights 
for gay and lesbians, and in governemental recognition of our lives.
 
GAL exists to empower its members; through a democratic process Gay and 
Lesbian Americans elect officials and determine its platform.
 
An independent organization, GLA has no political party affiliation, and 
does not make financial contributions to politicians.  We evaluate 
political canidates by their measurable accomplishments on gay and 
lesbian civil rights issues-not on their rhetor
ic and promises.
 
GLA seeks active, nationwide coalitions with diverse grassroots groups.  
To strengthen our constituency, we encourage all gay and lesbians to 
potically empower themselves - in their own ways.