LGBTQ+
As a member of the Congressional Equality Caucus, I am immensely proud of our progress toward ensuring equal rights for LGBTQ+ Americans. In my first term, I joined my colleagues in ending the discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy so that our men and women in uniform can serve openly in our Armed Forces.
In the years since, the Supreme Court’s rulings in Obergefell v. Hodges and Bostock v. Clayton County have brought us closer to realizing the goal of equality for all under the law. But there is still much we can do to make our country more inclusive, loving, and accepting.
In many states, it is still legal for public housing officials, education administrators, jurors, and businesses open to the public to discriminate against people because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The Equality Act, which I’ve cosponsored the last two Congresses and will again this Congress once it is reintroduced, would address this by guaranteeing anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in instances of public accommodations, housing, employment, federal funding, education, credit, and jury service.
Sadly, since taking office for the second time in January 2025, President Trump has issued a litany of Executive Orders and policies targeting the civil rights, health care, and safety of the LGBTQ+ community.
I anticipate the Trump Administration will continue to attack the LGBTQ+ community. I will not waiver in my commitment to protect the rights of all Americans – regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
As we navigate what’s to come, please know you are always welcome to contact my office via phone at (203) 333-6600 or electronically through my website here.