George Takei (Sulu) is taking part in a nationwide speaking tour to discuss gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues as well as his own background as part of the Human Rights Campaign's Coming Out Project.

Takei's official web site announced the news, stating that the actor "has been increasingly in the public eye speaking on GLBT issues since coming out in the press." In addition to his appearances on Howard Stern's radio show and his upcoming appearance on Will and Grace tonight, he will speak at several universities, including the University of Pennsylvania on April 10th, Johns Hopkins University on April 11th, the University of Minnesota on April 17th and the University of Wisconsin on April 18th.

Takei will talk about his experiences as a gay Japanese-American, encouraging others to share their stories as well. He will describe the prejudice he has encountered and ways to combat it with open communication. "I have felt the discrimination that used to separate Japanese Americans from the rest of the country melt away," he explained. "I believe that by sharing our stories GLBT Americans can break down the walls that separate us."

Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese said of Takei, "His unique role in pop culture history will help him reach new audiences with messages of understanding...we are tremendously excited to officially and publicly welcome George and his partner Brad [Altman] into the Human Rights Campaign family."

The original announcement is at GeorgeTakei.com.

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