Date: Thu, 20 Oct 1994 13:50:11 -0400 From: PFLAGNTL@aol.com Subject: PFLAG MBR BOOTED Contact: George Neighbors, Jr. W:202-638-4200 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRESS RELEASE Clinton Candidate Steps Down: Parent Withdraws Because of Lesbian Daughter October 20, 1994 - Washington, DC - The principal candidate for the Clinton Administration's new program to add 100,000 police officers to the streets was denied the lead position because of his support of gay and lesbian equality. Representative Barney Frank [D-MA] stated, "I am very disappointed with the administration." Tom Potter, former Portland, OR Police Chief and long time PFLAG supporter, was told by John R. Schmidt, 3rd in command at the Department of Justice, that his support for lesbian and gay equality was a "problem." Potter, the father of a lesbian, who is also a police officer, has supported his daughter and encouraged lesbian and gay citizens to join the police force. Representative Ron Wyden of Portland [D-OR] in a letter to Attorney General Janet Reno referred to the administration's apparent new policy as "don't ask, don't tell- don't stand up for equal rights." Potter, when asked for his perspective remarked, "Members of Congress are asking for an investigation into the case. There is, I believe, a very distinct tie between my candidacy and the controversy in support of gay and lesbian equality. I was, in fact, offered the job. The New York Times report is incorrect. The job was tentative only on White House approval, which happened, and a FBI background check. I did a drug test and met with people. I was ready to assume the position." "The fact that he speaks out and acts to ensure that all citizens are safe prejudiced his candidacy is appalling" commented Sandra Gillis, Executive Director of PFLAG. "This is a prime example of what the Employment Non-Discrimination Act could prevent - job discrimination based on sexual orientation for gays and lesbians and for those associated with gay and lesbian people. It is a crime that this sort of discrimination is permitted to continue towards our families and loved ones." - 30 - Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays is the largest family organization providing support, education and advocacy in more than 350 communities. ***************************************************************** Action Alert: PFLAG has been asked by Members of Congress to encourage interested parties to contact the administration, both the White House and Department of Justice. Email the White House at: President@whitehouse.gov Call the White House at: 202-456-1414 or fax 202-456-2461 Write to: President, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20500 Call Department of Justice at: 202-514-4195 or fax 202-514-0468 Write to: DOJ, Constitution Ave & 10th St, NW, Washington, DC 20530 Attn: Janet Reno