The Human Rights Campaign ( HRC ) announced that President Chad Griffin has informed the board of directors that he will depart the organization in 2019, after seven years at the helm, according to the organization.
In a press release, HRC touted accomplishments under Griffin, including doubling its membership, staff and budget to meet its expanded goals and opportunities. During Griffin's tenure, HRC has also led efforts to win marriage equality, introduce the Equality Act, and establish new programs to expand protections across the Deep South and around the globe, among other things.
Griffin said, in part, "For decades, this organization has shown the world that love conquers hate. But this year, in this election, with the future of our democracy on the ballot and the equality of future generations on the line, we proved that votes conquer hate, too."
In a separate statement, Planned Parenthood Federation of America President Dr. Leana Wen said, "We all live in a more equal and just society because of Chad and his leadership at HRC. His legacy will not only be the landmark policies and the new generation of legislators he has fought for, but the countless advocates he has inspired along the way."
The HRC board will work to establish an executive search process for Griffin's successor over the coming weeks.