DAILY SNAPSHOT
Thursday, April 9, 2015

Why We Support Banning Conversion Therapy

More than 120,000 people signed a petition calling for a ban on the dangerous and unacceptable practice of conversion therapy -- and yesterday, we responded.

Conversion therapy generally refers to practices that seek to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. The overwhelming scientific evidence demonstrates that conversion therapy is neither medically or ethically appropriate and can cause substantial harm.

That’s why the Obama administration supports efforts to ban the use of conversion therapy for minors.

Read our petition response and learn more about why we need to ban conversion therapy.

Our Endangered Climate: Kicking off Public Health Week

On Tuesday, President Obama participated in a roundtable at Howard University focused on how climate change is harming our health. Joined by Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy, the President outlined what the Administration has already done to reduce the causes of climate change, and discussed ways to prepare our communities for the impacts it will have on our health, safety, and overall well-being.

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Another Step Toward Equality for LGBT Workers

Back in July, President Obama signed an Executive Order concerning LGBT workplace discrimination -- and yesterday, it went into effect. This prohibits federal contractors and subcontractors from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, ensuring a more dynamic and inclusive workforce.

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WhiteHouse.gov Is Evolving with You in Mind

Last night, we released the first-ever responsive White House homepage. Here's what that means: The WhiteHouse.gov landing page now displays content in a consistent way, no matter which device you're using. This change also means that we're helping you find the most relevant content as quickly as possible. Take a look at the new homepage and let us know what you think.

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All times are Eastern Time (ET)

10:30 AM: The President arrives at Jamaica House

10:35 AM: The President participates in a guest book signing

10:45 AM: The President holds a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller of Jamaica

12:30 PM: The Vice President delivers an address on U.S. policy in Iraq

1:05 PM: The President takes an official family photo with CARICOM

1:20 PM: The President holds a meeting with CARICOM

3:30 PM: The President holds a town hall with young leaders

5:10 PM: The President arrives National Heroes' Park War Memorial

5:15 PM: The President participates in a wreath laying ceremony

6:00 PM: The President departs Jamaica en route Panama City, Panama

7:45 PM: The President arrives in Panama City, Panama

8:25 PM: The President meets with Embassy personnel and families

10:00 PM: The Vice President attends an event for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee