From kevyn@KSUVM.KSU.EDUMon Aug 7 20:35:32 1995 Date: Mon, 7 Aug 1995 20:07:24 -0500 From: Kevyn Jacobs To: Kansas Queer News Cc: glb-news@listserv.blue.aol.com Subject: Letter from The Secret Service regarding "The Gloves Incident" Two months ago, a group of gay elected officials from across the U.S. were invited to the White House. Upon arriving, these officials, which included state representatives & senators, judges, school board members and city officials were greeted by Secret Service Agents WEARING RUBBER GLOVES. When I read in the gay press about this blatant show of stupidity and prejudice by the Secret Service, I was outraged. I wrote an indignant letter to the President about this incident. Today I received this letter from the Secret Service, indicating that AIDS/HIV sensitivity training is now being provided to the agents of the Secret Service. I thought I would share it with you. -Kevyn Jacobs =============================================== DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY UNITED STATES SECRET SERVICE Mr. Kevyn Jacobs 811 Fremont, #5 Manhattan, Kansas 66502-5867 Dear Mr. Jacobs: Thank you for your letter to President Clinton. Your letter, concerning the actions of members of the Uniformed Division of the Secret Service when several visitors arrived at the White House recently, has been forwarded to this office for response. The Uniformed Division Officers of the U.S. Secret Service have discretion to wear protective gloves in the performance of their duties. It is not the policy of the Secret Service to wear gloves merely based on known sexual preference. The allegations of any form of discrimination by members of this agency are taken very seriously. Uniformed Division Officers receive training with respect to health and safety issues. This training includes developing a sensitivity to issues relating to discrimination and dealing with the public. This training is important to our agency and is a high priority. Special training sessions directed specifically to these matters are being held at this time. We regret the unfortunate actions that led to the misunderstanding with this group of White House visitors and appreciate your concern. Sincerely, H. Terrence Samway Assistant Director Office of Government Liaison and Public Affairs