Did you know that D.C. has an Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Affairs? I certainly didn’t, and the Office’s annual report indicated that it has more work to do to raise awareness of its existence. After surveys administered online, at DC Black Pride and Capital Pride, the office found that respondents rated the agency an average of 3.3 points on a scale of 1 to 5, 1 being least aware of the office and 5 being most aware.

Nevertheless, Metro Weekly reports that LGBT Affairs had a very productive 2007. Among other accomplishments, the office reached out to 2,500 residents at 130 community events; produced a directory of local LGBT organizations and their respective leaders; and worked with the MPD to revise their treatment of transgender inmates.

The agency set a laundry list of goals for 2008. These include expanding participation in community events; addressing public policy issues such as health and wellness, economic development, and LGBT youth and transgender residents; organizing LGBT job fairs; and co-sponsoring community forums.

photo by yospyn