Jean Chretien to Receive International Role Model Award at Equality Forum 2005

Former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien to Receive International Role Model Award at Equality Forum 2005

Contact: Michael Pomante, 215-732-3378, or Malcolm Lazin, 215-732-7375, both of Equality Forum

See Also: Urgent - Anti Equality Bill in Parliament

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 22 /U.S. Newswire/ -- "As Canada's Prime Minister, Jean Chretien championed same-sex marriage," stated Malcolm Lazin, executive director, Equality Forum. "In 2003, then Prime Minister Chretien called on Canadian citizens to support marriage equality. This impressive support by Mr. Chretien demonstrates the importance to Canadians of minority rights and separation of church and state."

"We are honored to bestow our 10th annual International Role Model Award to Jean Chretien," according to Joe Farrell, chair, Board of Directors, Equality Forum. "Mr. Chretien will attend to accept the award and speak about international GLBT civil rights." The award will be presented on Friday, April 29 at the National Constitution Center, Independence National Historical Park at Equality Forum 2005.

"Jean Chretien is an especially worthy candidate. He is a devout Catholic, who adhered to his public responsibility of equality for all Canadian citizens," stated Michele Bogrette, vice president, Board of Directors. "With his impetus, most of Canada's provinces legally sanction same-sex marriage."

Equality Forum presents the largest annual national and international gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) civil rights forum. Equality Forum 2005 from Monday, April 25 to Sunday, May 1 has over 60 programs, parties and special events with more than 100 organizations participating.

Equality Forum 2005 will highlight at a National Celebration on Sunday, May 1 in Independence National Historical Park the 40th Anniversary of the start of the GLBT civil rights movement.

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Equality Forum

For more information, visit Equality Forum. A photo of Mr. Chretien and his bio can be downloaded from the Web site. For additional information, please contact Michael Pomante, program manager, at Michael@equalityforum.com or 215-732-3378 ext. 15.