On the recordNovember 30, 2016
Mr. Speaker, equality, justice, and opportunity for all cannot coexist in a society where bigotry, misogyny, anti-Semitism, and other kinds of hatred are accepted or even encouraged. Only one of these two sets of values has made our country great, while the other has the ability to further divide and ultimately destroy us. Following the President-elect's appointment of Steve Bannon as White House Chief Strategist, my office received hundreds of calls and letters from concerned constituents deeply worried about an administration that pits people against one another, creates scapegoats, and goes against the better angels of our nature. If the President-elect wants to be the President for all Americans, he simply cannot surround himself with individuals that tolerate, inspire, or participate in hate speech. With reports of bias-based attacks continuing to rise following the election, we must remain focused on ensuring that no American, regardless of race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation, feels marginalized or afraid in his or her own community. We must remember that there will always be more that unites us than divides us. It is up to us to stop hatred wherever we see it, especially in the halls of government. ____________________





