FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: REACTION TO TODAY’S MEETING OF LGBT FAMILIES AND EXECUTIVES OF
BONNEVILLE INTERNATIONAL
Contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , Executive Director
Salt Lake City, UT – In a major step today, representatives of Salt Lake City's KSL-TV and its parent corporation, Bonneville International, met with LGBT families about the controversial TV show "The New Normal." Following the meeting KSL representatives stated that, "We care about and value all members of our community, including LGBT people and their families, and are grateful when there can be the type of cordial and respectful dialogue we have had today."
Brandie Balken, Executive Director of Equality Utah, upon leaving the meeting commented, "It is so important that KSL and its parent company Bonneville International have come out very publicly today and reinforced the value of all families, including LGBT families here in Utah and across the country."
Valerie Larabee, Executive Director of Utah Pride, stated that, "As to the intent of this meeting, we're not particularly interested in debating content, but rather in increasing the sensitivity and awareness about LGBT families. We believe after today's meeting with Bonneville International CEO Jeff Simpson, that point was well received. We also wish to thank Mr. Simpson and his colleagues for the civility and tone of the meeting."
At this moment where our country is so divided, we believe dialogue and communication are the best way to bridge cultural gaps. We strongly feel that our children have a right to grow up in a community knowing that their families are as important and valuable as any other. We are grateful for the opportunity to introduce our families to KSL management today and appreciate their willingness to talk with us.
Even though our meeting today was not to debate the content of the show, "The New Normal," we are fully aware there has been a lot of attention on the potential content. We are committed to moving the conversation forward, and building community awareness and respect. Viewers will have an opportunity to make their own decision as to the content.
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About Equality Utah: Equality Utah is the state's largest policy and advocacy organization working to secure equal rights and protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Utahans and their families. For more information visit www.equalityutah.org
About Utah Pride: Utah Pride is a nonprofit organization founded in 1992, whose mission is to provide support, education, outreach, and advocacy for Utah's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer individuals, and their families and allies, through programs, services, and resources. For more information visit www.utahpridecenter.org
