The Hill News

President Barack Obama announced Tuesday a new initiative to promote rights for and prevent laws targeting gays and lesbians abroad.

Obama released a memorandum directing federal agencies to use foreign aid dollars to combat the criminalization of homosexuality, protect LGBT refugees and asylum seekers, and respond to human rights abuses in foreign countries.

"The struggle to end discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons is a global challenge, and one that is central to the United States commitment to promoting human rights," Obama said in a statement. "I am deeply concerned by the violence and discrimination targeting LGBT persons around the world, whether it is passing laws that criminalize LGBT status, beating citizens simply for joining peaceful LGBT pride celebrations, or killing men, women, and children for their perceived sexual orientation."

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