Local Service Members Honored in White House LGBT Pride Month Video Challenge

When the White House called for a compelling video that spotlights everyday, unsung heroes
in the LGBT community who are creating positive change in the lives of fellow Americans –
the San Diego-based Military Acceptance Project answered.

Their video, entitled Just Like You (http://www.whitehouse.gov/lgbtvideochallenge) was selected as one of only six semifinalists in this historic challenge and features seven local LGBT service members and veterans.

Voting online began today and will run for one week only. The winners are chosen
by popular public vote and will be honored at the White House in July.

“Our goal was to personalize LGBT service members and honor their service and sacrifices.”
states Military Acceptance Project Executive Director, Kristen Kavanaugh, herself a Naval
Academy graduate, combat veteran and lesbian. “Acceptance in the military and our
communities begins first by understanding that LGBT service members are just like their
straight counterparts.”

The video is also the beginning of their Just Like You campaign to
collect and share the experiences of service members – especially those from marginalized
populations.

To vote for the Military Acceptance Project’s video, visit the White House’s website at:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/lgbtvideochallenge
For more information on the work of the Military Acceptance Project visit:
http://www.militaryacceptanceproject.org

The Military Acceptance Project (MAP) is an organization created by a team of social workers from the University of Southern California's School of Social Work. Based in San Diego, MAP promotes the acceptance and dignity of every United States service member worldwide. MAP has no political agenda and is not affiliated with the Department of Defense, any branch of service, or federal/state government. MAP values each service member and his or her contribution to support and defend the United States of America.