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New bill would provide civil rights protections from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, sex


New York — Planned Parenthood Action Fund today applauded introduction of “The Equality Act,” legislation that would enact greater protections from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex by strengthening existing civil rights anti-discrimination laws in categories like employment, housing, credit, public spaces and services, education, federally assisted programs, and jury service.

Statement from Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood Action Fund:

"This bill would put into law what the majority of Americans believe — that no one in this country should face discrimination because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This bill will bring clear and consistent protections for individuals from discrimination based on their gender identity, sex, or sexual orientation. We applaud our allies and leaders in Congress for introducing The Equality Act and are proud to work with them toward a world where all people can celebrate the same basic human rights and freedom — regardless of race, sex, gender identity or sexual orientation"

The current lack of existing federal protections for LGBT people across the country leave individuals vulnerable to discrimination in employment and housing, among other areas of their lives.  The bill, introduced by Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) together with Reps. David Cicilline (D-RI), John Lewis (D-GA), and Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), would write into federal civil rights laws explicit protections for sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity where they are missing today. With respect to women in particular, the bill fills in long-standing gaps in civil rights protections. If enacted, this law would give both women and LGBT people greater opportunities to succeed. These prohibitions would go a long way to ensure that women are treated equally in all aspects of their lives.

The Planned Parenthood Action fund is happy to endorse this bill, which is a critical step toward establishing a society where every individual is treated equally under the law.

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