7/29/2014

WASHINGTON—Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) announced Rob Hill as state director of HRC Mississippi. Hill will lead the organization’s Project One America effort across the state to bring equality to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. Using the resources of HRC and collaborating with local organizations, Hill will work to change hearts and minds, advance enduring legal protections, and build more inclusive institutions.

“Rob is a Mississippian and has the talents to connect with people across the state from the Gulf Coast to the Delta region,” said Project One America director Brad Clark. “I have no doubt Rob will work hard to bring LGBT Mississippians the respect and dignity they deserve.”

Hill has served as a United Methodist pastor for the past 12 years. He most recently led Broadmeadow United Methodist Church in Jackson for nine years. Hill has also served on various community boards aimed at helping youth programs, improving the Jackson community, and providing resources for neighborhood revitalization.

“Growing up in Mississippi, I know the challenges LGBT people face here,” said Hill. “I know Mississippi can make a positive change to ensure all people have equal opportunities and respect of the law.”

According to a recent survey commissioned by HRC, LGBT Mississippians are participating members of their respective communities. In fact-- 57 percent of respondents have called Mississippi home for more than 20 years. However, the survey also revealed LGBT people face daunting amounts of harassment. For instance, 46 percent have experienced harassment at school; 24 percent experienced employment discrimination; and 22 percent experience harassment monthly or more at their respective houses of worship. To address these disparities, HRC launched Project One America earlier this year to improve the lived experience of LGBT people.

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality. HRC’s Project One America--an unprecedented effort to dramatically expand LGBT equality in the South through permanent campaigns in Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas—is generously supported by the HRC Foundation.

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