Equality Act passes in House of Representatives

Friday, May 14, the Equality Act passed in the U.S. House of Representatives, which adds LGBTQ+ people to existing civil rights laws.

DNC Chair Tom Perez responded to the passage by saying, “today, Democrats reaffirmed our support for the equitable and fair treatment of LGBTQ+ people. Every LGBTQ+ person, regardless of where they live, deserves the right to earn a living, raise a family and live a life free from discrimination.”

Perez said seven in ten Americans support protections for LGBTQ+ people, but President Trump has made a different stance.

“This administration has been ruthless in its efforts to undo the progress we've made toward LGBTQ equality,” Perez said. “From access to health care to the ability to serve in uniform, this president and his administration have dragged us backwards when it comes to LGBTQ rights. The American people deserve better.”

Diana Thu-Taho Rhodes, Director of Public Policy at Advocates for Youth, said that, without the Equality Act, sexual orientation and gender identity are not explicitly mentioned in federal anti-discrimination legislation.

The purpose of the Equality Act is to change that by amending the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include LGBTQ+ people and to strengthen protections for all people, especially women, religious minorities, and people of color.

It would also make discrimination illegal in public places such as schools, restaurants, and shelters, and it would ensure that institutions that receive federal funding cannot refused services based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

"Currently, in 30 states, LGBTQ youth are at risk of being fired, refused housing, or denied services simply because of who they are,” Thu-Taho Rhodes said. “The Equality Act is a step in the right direction in supporting young people's health and well-being.”

The Gayly 5/17/2019 12:09 p.m. CST