Santa Clara University School of Law will honor lesbian activist Elizabeth Birch at a Celebration of Diversity Gala on Oct. 25.  Birch is the former executive director of the Human Rights Campaign, the leading homosexual advocacy group.

A statement by the law school identified Birch as “one of the most recognized lesbian leaders in the country.”  In noting her accomplishments as an activist, dean Donald Polden said, “Ms. Birch serves as a role model for our students.” 

In a Feb. 24, 2005 appearance on Chris Matthews’ Hardballshow, Birch said, “I, for one, thank God every day that the pope cannot intervene and dictate the affairs of the United States.”

Also speaking at the gala will be former U.S. ambassador to Luxembourg James Hormel, a prominent homosexual.  Hormel stirred up controversy when President Bill Clinton bypassed the Senate and gave him a recess appointment in 1999.  Luxembourg is 87 percent Catholic.

Earlier this year, Patricia Cain and Jean Love, lesbian partners, each received endowed professorships at the Santa Clara law school.  Cain formerly served on the board of the homosexual Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund. 

Two years ago, the university hosted the first of three annual Out There homosexual conferences.  The third conference was held at DePaul University, another Catholic institution, Oct. 19-20, 2007.

Santa Clara University is a Jesuit university founded in 1851 and located in northern California.