Timed to coincide with June weekend pride parades nationwide, the President's message is a clear reflection of gay and lesbian victories that are being won on political fields. His announcement comes directly on the heels of his publicly stated objections, as a Southern Baptist believer, to boycotts of the Disney company decided upon at last week's meeting in Dallas of the Southern Baptist Convention. In the wake of that convention polls show that Americans, on the whole, decry institutionalized anti-gay measures.

In his message, titled "Gay and Lesbian Pride Celebration, 1997" the President says:

"Throughout America's history, we have overcome tremendous challenges by drawing strength from our great diversity. We must never believe that our diversity is a weakness. The talents, contributions, and goodwill of people from so many different backgrounds have enriched our national life and have enabled us to fulfill our common hopes and dreams. As we stand at the dawn of a new century, we must all rededicate ourselves to reaching the vital goals of acceptance and inclusion. America's continued success will depend on our ability to understand, appreciate, and care for one another.

"We're not there yet, and that is why our efforts to end discrimination against lesbians and gay men are so important. Like each of you, I remain dedicated to ending discrimination and preserving the civil rights of every citizen in our society. We have begun to wage an all-out campaign against hate crimes in America--crimes that are often viciously directed at gay men and lesbians. I have also endorsed and fought for civil rights legislation that would protect gay and lesbian Americans from discrimination. The Employment Non-Discrimination Act now being considered in Congress would put an end to discrimination against gay men and lesbians in the workplace--discrimination that is currently legal in 39 states. These efforts reflect our belief in the right of every American to be judged on his or her merits and abilities, and to be allowed to contribute to society without facing discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. And they reflect our ongoing fight against bigotry and intolerance in our country and in our hearts.

"My Administration's record of inclusiveness is a strong one, but it is a record to build on. I am proud of the many openly gay men and lesbians who serve with distinction in my Administration, and their impact will continue to be significant in the years ahead. I pledge to you that I will continue striving to foster compassion and understanding, working not simply to tolerate our differences, but to celebrate them.

"Best wishes for a memorable celebration. Bill Clinton"

While the President's statement of good will toward his homosexual constituency will be read coast to coast at lesbian and gay pride rallies, there are many who remain skeptical about his commitment to absolute equality. They recall that Clinton and many of his Democratic supporters in Congress, stood squarely behind DOMA, the Defense of Marriage Act, designed and passed to prevent same-sex marriages.

AIDS activists remain apprehensive or scornful about the lack of government AIDS funding, fearing that the President's latest AIDS policies, including a controversial AIDS vaccine research program, writes off the AIDS community. Vaccines hold little hope for people, they say, who are already infected and who would prefer a massive government-backed research project aimed instead at a cure for the disease.