White House Names GLSEN Advocate Bob Johnson as Fatherhood "Champion of Change"

NEW YORK - June 13, 2012 - The following is a statement from GLSEN Executive Director Dr. Eliza Byard about GLSEN advocate Bob Johnson being honored today by the White House as a Fatherhood "Champion of Change." Mr. Johnson is one of ten individuals selected to receive this honor for doing tremendous work in the field of fatherhood and are addressing the needs of low-income men and boys.

"On behalf of GLSEN, I would like to congratulate our friend Bob Johnson for being named one of the White House Fatherhood 'Champions of Change.' It has been an inspiring experience for GLSEN to work alongside Bob. From the very beginning, it was abundantly clear that Bob's strong moral character was the driving force behind his decision to become a safe schools advocate. Bob took action when his son Kelby was relentlessly bullied and harassed in school because of his sexual orientation. Now, Bob has partnered with GLSEN to speak out in favor of federal legislation that would guarantee the fundamental right for every child in this country to attend a safe and affirming school. Fathers like Bob serve as outstanding role models for our nation's families and we are proud to join the White House in paying tribute to this extraordinary father."

ABOUT GLSEN
GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students. Established in 1990, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.