“We are disappointed that Alphonso David has chosen to take retaliatory action against the Human Rights Campaign for his termination which resulted from his own actions, while serving as the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) president, to assist former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s team in responding to allegations of sexual harassment against former Governor Cuomo.

Last year, after a Board-led investigation conducted through the Executive Committees of the HRC and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRCF) Boards of Directors, constituted of their independent Directors, with the assistance of Sidley Austin, the boards voted to terminate Alphonso David for cause. Mr. David’s actions – which he does not dispute – in assisting Governor Cuomo’s team in responding to allegations by Ms. Boylan of sexual harassment were, among other things, in violation of HRC’s Conflict of Interest policy and the mission of HRC.

Mr. David’s complaint is riddled with untruths. We are confident through the legal process that it will be apparent that Mr. David’s termination was based on clear violations of his contract and HRC’s mission, and as president of HRC, he was treated fairly and equally. Notably, some of the individuals he accuses of discriminatory behavior are people of color and champions of racial equity and inclusion who provided support and guidance as Mr. David led the organization. Also, the Executive Committees, constituted of independent directors, were comprised of seven individuals, five of whom are Black.

Mr. David’s actions as detailed in the NY State Attorney General’s report were a painful revelation, particularly because so many members of the LGBTQ+ community are survivors of assault and harassment themselves. Moving forward, we will not be distracted and will remain focused on our critical work to bring full equality and liberation of LGBTQ+ people everywhere, especially for the most marginalized people in our community.”

UPDATE: HRC filed its answer with the court on March 7, 2022.