WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, today announced a $100,000 gift from Brad Pitt to support the organization’s marriage efforts.  Pitt has agreed to match contributions from HRC members and supporters up to $100,000 in order to direct resources to the marriage campaigns entering their final week in Maine, Maryland, Minnesota and Washington State.

“Brad Pitt’s partnership with HRC in this closing week delivers vital resources into these campaigns and we’re proud to be working with him as we show that fundamental fairness will win at the ballot box,” said HRC President Chad Griffin. “With his commitment, Brad joins HRC in a tremendous coalition of religious leaders, business leaders, labor groups, civil rights organizations and everyday, fair-minded Americans supporting marriage for gay and lesbian couples.”

“It's unbelievable to me that people's lives and relationships are literally being voted on in a matter of days,” said Pitt in an email today to HRC members and supporters.  “If you're like me, you don't want to have to ask yourself on the day after the election, what else could I have done?”

Supporters can heed Pitt’s call and contribute with him to HRC’s marriage work at: www.hrc.org/Brad. 

HRC has invested $8 million in efforts to expand marriage equality over the past two years, including $5 million in the four ballot measure states this year.  HRC has staff on the ground in each of the campaigns and is currently engaged in the organization’s largest ever election year mobilization to put these campaigns – and other endorsed candidates – over the top.

 The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.