Initiative seeks to 'strengthen the equality movement' in each country
Walmart among companies to participate in initiative
Advocates have urged secretary of state to publicly condemn crackdown
Vote took place after Angela Merkel changed position
Kurdish activist unable to obtain U.S. visa
Secretary of State Rex Tillerson urged to rescind appointments
Kurdish human rights activist unable to attend HRC summit
S.C. governor to succeed Samantha Power
South Carolina governor tapped to become U.N. ambassador
Ambassador nominee’s LGBT rights record mixed in S.C.
