A new internet domain was unveiled Thursday for sites focused on the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community – .LGBT.
In a statement to Secrets, the Dublin global registry services provider Afilias said it chose the letters because it is “the most inclusive, accepted and widely used term for this large and diverse community.” Other choices in a heated debate over the web address included .gay and .pink.
Afilias said that the domain will be phased in. The first step is the “sunrise” period, which is limited to eligible trademark holders and is open from Jan. 5 through Feb. 4.
“I am excited and proud that the internet world has reached a new milestone on inclusion today,” said Roland LaPlante, of Afilias. “While hundreds of new top-level domains are being launched in the market, .LGBT is one of the most defining and iconic of our time. With this one dedicated web address, an entire global community and those who serve it have a protected address that embraces diversity and welcomes every member in a positive, clearly identifiable space.”
Paul Bedard, the Washington Examiner’s “Washington Secrets” columnist, can be contacted at [email protected].
