Randy Berry named first-ever LGBT rights envoy

WASHINGTON, Feb. 23 (UPI) -- The U.S. State Department on Monday named consul general to the Netherlands Randy Berry as the first-ever Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBT Persons.

The openly gay veteran senior U.S. foreign service officer was rumored earlier this month to be named to the post by Secretary of State John Kerry.

"Defending and promoting the human rights of LGBT persons is at the core of our commitment to advancing human rights globally -- the heart and conscience of our diplomacy. That's why we're working to overturn laws that criminalize consensual same-sex conduct in countries around the world," a release from Kerry said.

"Too often, in too many countries, LGBT persons are threatened, jailed, and prosecuted because of who they are or who they love. Too many governments have proposed or enacted laws that aim to curb freedom of expression, association, religion, and peaceful protest. More than 75 countries still criminalize consensual same-sex activity," Kerry added.

The Human Rights Campaign applauded the move. HRC President Chad Griffin sent a letter to Kerry in August encouraging the State Department to create the post.

"At a moment when many LGBT people around the world are facing persecution and daily violence, this unprecedented appointment shows a historic commitment to the principle that LGBT rights are human rights," Griffin said. "President Obama and Secretary Kerry have shown tremendous leadership in championing the rights of LGBT people abroad. Now, working closely with this new envoy, we've got to work harder than ever to create new allies, push back on human rights violators, and support the brave leaders and organizations that fight for LGBT rights around the world."

"This new appointment sends a message that the United States will remain on the forefront of  protecting the human rights of LGBT people around the world," Griffin added.  "Nations that place LGBT people in the cross hairs of danger must know that the United States will not turn a blind eye."

Meanwhile, U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., showed his support for the news on Twitter.

"By appointing Randy Berry as new @StateDept #LGBT envoy, the US sends a strong message re. our commitment to global equality & #HumanRights," he wrote.

By appointing Randy Berry as new @StateDept #LGBT envoy, the US sends a strong message re. our commitment to global equality & #HumanRights

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— Senator Ben Cardin (@SenatorCardin) February 23, 2015