Alan Lowenthal: “If we hold true to the idea that America stands for equality, equity, and diversity, then equal rights must apply to and…”

“If we hold true to the idea that America stands for equality, equity, and diversity, then equal rights must apply to and be protected for all Americans. No American should be discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Yet, despite the historic accomplishments toward equality over the past decade, LGBTQ Americans still face systemic discrimination. We know the fight for equality is always on the right side of history, and today's passage of the Equality Act is a much-needed step forward in that fight. Today's vote allows us to see the moral arc of the universe, as Martin Luther King, Jr., said, bend toward justice. ____________________”