Frontlines: The Latest from OutServe-SLDN

Generosity

The estate of the late Richard (Ric) W. Weiland, has announced the bequest of most of his fortune, worth an estimated $158-million, to a long list of charities including a number of LGBT organizations. The contributions, which included an $800,000 gift to SLDN, represent the single largest donation ever made in support of gay rights organizations. “Ric Weiland has given generously to Servicemembers Legal Defense Network since May 1996. His philanthropy has allowed SLDN to pursue its mission of working towards repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” while providing free legal services to military personnel affected by the law which bans lesbians, gays and bisexuals from serving in the military," said SLDN executive director Aubrey Sarvis. "With the continued support of the Weiland estate, SLDN is working for the day when all patriotic Americans will be able to serve their country regardless of their sexual orientation.” Ric Weiland, one of Microsoft's earliest employees, died in June 2006 at the age of 53. While he is no longer with us -- because of his generosity, his legacy of activism, service and compassion lives on. -Victor Maldonado

02-25-08