Washington, D.C. — Today, the Equality Act was reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. If passed, the act would codify key protections from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, public accommodations, services, and more. In response, Caleb Smith, director of LGBTQI+ Policy at the Center for American Progress, issued the following statement:
The Equality Act is must-pass legislation that would protect not only LGBTQI+ people but all Americans. Protecting all Americans from discrimination is essential to creating a productive country where everyone can thrive.
A recent CAP study found that 36 percent of LGBTQI+ adults in America experienced discrimination in the past year. LGBTQI+ people are our friends, family, neighbors, and loved ones. No one deserves to be fired from their job, refused medical care, or denied housing simply because of who they are or who they love.
For more information or to speak with an expert, please contact Mishka Espey at [email protected].