Gay rights activists are pushing ahead with a well-financed, coordinated campaign that aims to legalize same-sex marriage in about a dozen key U.S. states within three years.
The U.S. president's bid to build political momentum, which includes his trip to three African nations to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to the continent, has largely been overshadowed by Nelson Mandela's health.
Marco Castillo, president of the Diversity Movement, says that the national signature campaign for marriage equality is a chance to expand LBGT rights and educate the public on discrimination.
Improving financial transparency and regional security were the summit's main priorities as Costa Rica completed its six-month term as president pro tempore.