[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 115 (Thursday, September 12, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1574]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           TRIBUTE TO BAYMEC

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ZOE LOFGREN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 12, 2002

  Ms. LOFGREN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend BAYMEC, the Bay 
Area Municipal Elections Committee, as they celebrate 18 years of 
advocating for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights in 
Santa Clara Valley and in communities along the central coast of 
California.
  BAYMEC was founded in 1984 by local activists Ken Yeager and Wiggsy 
Sivertsen. At that time, the Santa Clara Valley region was still 
reeling from the repeal of city and county ordinances which would have 
given gays and lesbians protection in housing and employment. BAYMEC 
was formed to organize the local gay and lesbian community, reverse the 
political tide, and advance the civil rights of LGBT individuals.
  The past 18 years has produced a legacy of successes for BAYMEC and 
for the citizens of Santa Clara Valley. BAYMEC stands as a united front 
to fight for civil rights and end discrimination, to educate public 
officials, and to provide a voice for the LGBT community.
  I am proud of the leadership, volunteers and network of supporters 
whose dedication has built BAYMEC into an integral part of the fabric 
of our local community. And, in so doing, BAYMEC is contributing to 
making Santa Clara Valley and the Central Coast a place where all 
people can expect to be treated with justice, dignity and respect.




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