On the recordMarch 17, 2017
Mr. Speaker, since 2013 I have flown the pride flag outside my D.C. office in solidarity with the LGBT community. According to the House historian, I was the first to do so, a fact that I am very proud of. Yesterday, outside my office in Washington, D.C., a man took that flag out of its holder, threw it on the ground, and stomped on it. He called the flag disgusting and immoral. This flag is a symbol of pride for the LGBT community--an international symbol of love, understanding, equality, and hope. The shadows of intolerance have grown longer in recent days: bomb threats called into Jewish community centers, desecrations of Jewish cemeteries, hate crimes against minorities and the transgender community, horrifically racist statements from a Member of this body. To all our brothers and sisters who endure through these hateful acts, we stand with you, and we will continue to fight for your rights and your equality. ____________________
