"Few have done so much for so many as Senator Daniel Inouye. He distinguished himself in everything he set his mind to—from his heroic service in World War II to his historic tenure and record of accomplishment in the U.S. Senate. He gave his entire life to serving his fellow citizens.

"LGBT Americans across this country especially honor his unequivocal support for full LGBT equality—most notably, his 1996 vote against the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, his support for marriage equality and his co-sponsorship of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and other pro-equality legislation. Senator Inouye was a trailblazing leader and he will remain in our memories for standing with his LGBT sisters and brothers from day one. We will miss him, and every American should be grateful to have been touched by the life of this remarkable man."

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

Equality Hawaii mourns the passing of Sen. Inouye

For Immediate Release: Dec. 17, 2012 - Media Contact: Donald Bentz (808) 221-0799

HONOLULU - Equality Hawaii mourns today's passing of Sen. Daniel Inouye, the Senate's most senior member and a consistent champion of equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people.

Sen. Inouye had a pristine record on LGBT issues, one of only 14 votes against the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and supporter the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." He was also a co-sponsor of the Uniting American Families Act (UAFA) to provide immigration equality to same-sex partners. When Pres. Obama announced his support of marriage equality, Sen. Inouye said, "I look forward to working with the President to ensure his position on marriage equality becomes law in this country."

"Sen. Inouye has long been a beacon of hope for those who endured ridicule and retribution for being different," said Equality Hawaii Co-Chair Scott Larimer. "Our hearts go out to his family, friends and all people of Hawaii. His tireless advocacy for the civil rights of all people will always be remembered."

"His legacy of fairness and equality will endure the test of time," said Jacce Mikulanec, Equality Hawaii Action Fund co-chair. "He has been a stalwart in the Senate and shining example of the best an elected official has to offer. He will be greatly missed."

Representing Hawaii in Washington since it achieved statehood and a World War II veteran, Sen. Inouye was a powerful voice for Hawaii and equality in the Senate. His career witnessed some of history's most noted moments, serving on the committees investigating Watergate and the Iran-Contra affair.

On behalf of a grateful community, our hearts and best wishes go out to the Inouye family.