GLBT Event Moved Due to Immigration Furor

The Gay and Lesbian Leadership Institute, who had been considering holding its 2011 conference in Phoenix, has chosen Las Vegas instead.

Up until recently, Phoenix was considered the frontrunner to host the December 2011 conference.

The Phoenix Host Committee, led by Councilman Tom Simplot and Rep. Kyrsten Sinema, had been working furtively to secure the conference. The conference would have attracted hundreds of gay and lesbian elected leaders.

GLLI alluded that the immigration debate in Arizona caused them to chose another site, according to the Phoenix Host Committee.

GLLI said in a letter, "The current political and legal climate in Arizona makes it complicated to accept your hospitality."

GLLI helps equip gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people with the tools for success. The institute assists hundreds of individuals who go on to influential careers in politics, government, business and advocacy each year.