WASHINGTON - The Human Rights Campaign announced today the appointment of media relations professional Luis Vizcaino to serve as communications and marketing director. In this role, Vizcaino will help design and execute a comprehensive, multi-faceted communications and marketing plan that maintains and augments HRC and the HRC Foundation's position as the leading gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization in America.

"Luis' vast strategic communications, media relations and marketing experience will be key in helping the Human Rights Campaign reach Americans with the message of equality," said Joe Solmonese, HRC president. "His successful track record across the nation and in Washington, D.C., will serve the Human Rights Campaign well as we advocate for fairness for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans."

Vizcaino brings to HRC 12 years of media relations, public policy, marketing, government affairs and political campaign experience in the public, private and non-profit sectors. He has worked as communications director for political entities, advocacy organizations and constituency groups that focused on issues including welfare reform, health care parity, access to quality education and civil rights.

Over the course of his career, Vizcaino has served on three presidential campaigns, was the chief spokesperson for the 2000 Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles, and most recently was a senior advisor to Antonio Villaraigosa's 2005 mayoral campaign. He is fluent in Spanish and regularly appears on Spanish-language television stations as an on-air political analyst.

"I am honored to join a team of experienced, talented and skilled professionals at the Human Rights Campaign who are committed to improving the quality of life for LGBT Americans," said Vizcaino. "I will work tirelessly to further enhance the organization's goals, reach more and more Americans with the message of fairness and continue the important work of securing equality for every LGBT person in this country."
Vizcaino will begin his post at the Human Rights Campaign on June 15, 2006.

The Human Rights Campaign is the largest national lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender political organization with members throughout the country. It effectively lobbies Congress, provides campaign support and educates the public to ensure that LGBT Americans can be open, honest and safe at home, at work and in the community.