Sean Patrick Maloney: “I rise in opposition to the Kolbe and Hefley amendment. The United States is an inclusive country. It is built upon the…”

“I rise in opposition to the Kolbe and Hefley amendment. The United States is an inclusive country. It is built upon the thoughts, beliefs, practices, of many countries. I am almost embarrassed that any Member of Congress would attempt such a slap in the face against any one segment of the American population. Do gay people not pay taxes? Do gay people not participate in this Nation's economic growth? Do gay people not make creative, intelligent, thoughtful, and important contributions to America as a whole? Why would we then single them out as a particular group not worthy of common courtesy, decency, and fairness? Two hundred and forty-five Members of this House and 65 Senators have in place proper nondiscrimination policies. More than half of the Fortune 500 companies have similar policies in place. The Federal Government should not be the exception. In fact, it should be setting the right example. No one is asking for any special privileges, quotas, or preferences. The President's Executive Order asks only for basic human rights for everyone. It simply clarifies existing nondiscrimination policies of Federal agencies and offices. I urge a no vote against both amendments.”