“We’re proud that Janice will receive the Presidential Citizens Medal from the White House in recognition of her tireless advocacy beginning in a Florida hospital more than three years ago,” said Kevin Cathcart, Executive Director for Lambda Legal. “Because Janice boldly told her story, President Obama heard about her and issued the directive last year that led to the new federal rules that will protect same-sex couples and their families across the country.”
When Langbehn’s domestic partner of 18 years, Lisa Pond, was rushed to Miami’s Jackson Memorial Hospital, officials initially denied visitation rights to Langbehn. After hours of waiting, Langbehn accompanied a priest who said last rites for Pond.
Earlier this year, President Obama—who signed a memorandum calling for an end to discrimination against gay men and lesbians in hospital-visitation policies—called Langbehn to apologize for what she endured in the hospital.
The recipients will be honored Oct. 20.