Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Equality

I am working to advance Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) equality in Congress by ending existing discrimination written in federal laws, giving law enforcement tools to pursue perpetrators of hate crimes, and extending marriage rights and responsibilities to same-sex couples and families.

Marriage Equality

I believe in expanding marriage rights and responsibilities to same-sex couples and to have those marriages recognized by other states and the federal government. I strongly support repealing the discriminatoryDefense of Marriage Act, which actively denies marriage rights and recognition to same-sex couples.

Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell

I also believe that men and women in our armed services should be able to serve their country openly, regardless of their sexual orientation and I am fighting to end the unjust “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.

Hate Crimes

I am proud that we expanded hate crime laws to extend protections to victims of crimes committed against them on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identity. After more than a decade of work, theMatthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act was signed into law by President Obama on October 28th, 2009.

Employment Non-Discrimination

I am a strong supporter of legislation called the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which prohibits discrimination in employment based on a worker’s sexual orientation or gender identity -- similar to protections we offer based on age, gender, religious affiliation, and race.

I am proud to be vice-chair of the Congressional Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Caucus.