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BURLINGTON--Elizabeth Birch, a national civil rights leader, former Silicon Valley executive and noted lawyer, has joined Dean for America as a senior advisor beginning today. Until recently Birch led the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and HRC Foundation, the nation's largest GLBT advocacy organization.
"Governor Dean has lived his principles of inclusion by treating the gay community of America with respect and fairness. But just as important, I am also confident that on a broad range of policy issues and approaches from the economy to health care and the management of our international relations, he has the best long-term prescription for a healthy America, domestically and abroad," Birch said.
"Elizabeth has been a long-time friend and a great leader in our nation, and I am extremely pleased to have her aboard," Governor Dean said. "Elizabeth will be a valuable advisor on many policy issues and a key strategist on multiple fronts for the campaign."
From 1995 to January 4, 2004, Birch served as Executive Director of the Human Rights Campaign and HRC Foundation. During her tenure the organization grew dramatically in its member, budget, scope of programming and effectiveness. HRC is now recognized nationwide mainstream political advocacy organizations, known for its professionalism, cutting edge advocacy techniques, groundbreaking use of media and innovative communications strategies. Birch has been recognized for her passionate advocacy and in 2002 received the highest honor of the Leadership Counsel on Civil Rights (LCCR), the nation's oldest coalition of civil rights organizations.
Prior to her tenure at HRC, Elizabeth was a respected executive in Silicon Valley. She served as worldwide director of litigation for Apple Computer, Inc. and as the General Counsel of Claris Corporation, the software subsidiary of Apple.
The Human Rights Campaign has not yet endorsed any candidate for president.