The New Hampshire Democratic Party state convention scheduled for this Saturday, June 2, will unofficially begin the intense national focus on New Hampshire's unique "first-in-the-nation" primary status and the Human Rights Campaign will use this opportunity to have a major presence at the event to highlight the strategic vision the organization is developing for this critical election cycle.

"In the beginning of 2006, we took a leap of faith that has since created a seismic shift and replaced a state headed by politicians dedicated to going down a path of tired, worn-out divisive political discussions that pit neighbor against neighbor with leaders that are focused on continuing the values of fairness and equality inherent in the history of New Hampshire," said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "Because of the 2006 elections, this week Governor Lynch was able to sign a civil unions bill into law that recognizes the commitment of same-sex couples and creates an environment that welcomes presidential candidates into a refreshing discussion focused on moving our country closer to equality for all Americans. As we look toward 2008, HRC remains dedicated to helping empower the fair-minded people of New Hampshire to not only change their state but impact the national conversation as well."

HRC's extensive electoral work in New Hampshire during the 2006 elections, where its direct financial and staff support made it the largest financial contributor to the field efforts of eight key state Senate races, helped secure the current fair-minded majority in both the state House and Senate. As a result of HRC flexing its political muscle to change the dynamic of the New Hampshire state Legislature, the organization's campaign in the state was chronicled in The Boston Globe, The Washington Post and other news outlets.

These hard-won electoral victories paved the way for the New Hampshire Legislature to pass a civil unions bill this year for same-sex couples that grants the same rights and benefits as marriage. HRC field staff were on the ground in New Hampshire and worked closely with state legislators, community groups and local leaders to pass the civil unions bill that Gov. John Lynch singed into law May 30. The law will become effective on Jan. 1, 2008.

HRC's expansion of its reach in New Hampshire includes:

• In June, HRC will initiate a statewide campaign to empower HRC members, supporters and allied communities to play a visible role in the New Hampshire presidential primary and ask questions of the candidates at scheduled campaign stops.
• This summer, HRC will open an office in Concord or Manchester where a regional field organizer will spearhead HRC's involvement in the New Hampshire presidential primary.
• HRC will work closely with its New Hampshire members, supporters and allied communities to play a significant role in attending or hosting forums for the presidential candidates.
• HRC will continue to mobilize its New Hampshire members, supporters, clergy and local leaders in a grassroots campaign to pass federal hate crimes legislation and put in place federal protections against workplace discrimination against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.

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