LGBTQ+ Americans lack basic legal protections in states across the country. Federal LGBTQ+ nondiscrimination protections like the ones outlined in the Equality Act would ensure that all LGBTQ+ Americans have basic legal protections. 

On February 25, 2021, the House of Representatives passed the Equality Act, Join us now in urging the Senate to vote on and pass the bill (H.R. 5/S. 393) to update federal law to include nondiscrimination protections for Americans based on sexual orientation and gender identity across virtually every area of daily life.

The bill would amend the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Fair Housing Act, and other federal laws to include sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics. The (H.R. 5/S. 393) bill defines and includes sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity among the prohibited categories of discrimination or segregation. 

This bill prohibits discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity in areas including public accommodations and facilities, employment, housing, credit, education, federal funding, and the jury system. 

By updating our federal civil rights laws to provide explicit protections on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity — alongside race, color, national origin, sex, and religion — this bill would deter discrimination and ensure that LGBTQ people have legal recourse if they are harmed by it. 

Everyone deserves a fair chance to support themselves, provide for their family, and live as their true selves free from the fear of harassment or discrimination. It's more important than ever that all people have comprehensive, nationwide protection against discrimination. 

Call, email, or Tweet today and show support for senators who stand for equality and tell those who don’t that it’s time to join the 72% of Americans who do - Check out some prompts for guidance to take action below!