Even though we have made tremendous progress toward equality for LGBTQ Americans, including nationwide marriage equality, many states still do not have laws explicitly prohibiting discrimination against LGBTQ people. That’s why we applaud the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Equality Act, which would prohibit discrimination against all LGBTQ Americans, including federal employees.
As a labor union, we support civil rights and equal rights for all workers from all backgrounds. That’s why we applaud the U.S. House of Representatives for passing, with bipartisan support, the Equality Act, a historic piece of federal legislation that would prohibit discrimination against all LGBTQ Americans, including federal employees.
The act would amend existing federal civil rights laws by adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of protected classes, explicitly prohibiting discrimination against LGBTQ Americans in areas of education, employment, housing, credit, federal jury service, public accommodations, and the use of federal funds.
“While it is unbelievable that we are still living in a world where we have to pass legislation to ensure the rights of human beings in this country, I am grateful for this victory,” said AFGE National Vice President for Women and Fair Practices Jeremy Lannan. “Federal and D.C. government employees are the backbone of this country and deserve to be able to do their jobs proudly and without fear of discrimination, no matter how they identify or who they love.”
Even though the Equality Act has passed the House, our work is far from over. This act is on the way to the U.S. Senate where it is sure to face tough opposition.
“Let’s continue to push our lawmakers to stand up for the LGBTQIA+ community and make the Equality Act law,” Lannan added.
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