LGBT Nondiscrimination Resolution

Floor Speech

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Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the House resolution declaring that gay, lesbian, and transgender people should be protected from discrimination under the law.

Every day, LGBT Americans are denied housing and public accommodations. In 29 States, someone can be fired because they are gay, and in 32 States, someone can be fired because of their gender identity. In several States, there is an organized push to deny LGBT Americans their rights.

However, dozens of States have taken action and passed nondiscrimination laws, as have hundreds of cities; yet this body has not. Congress is sworn to uphold the Constitution, the same Constitution that says no State shall ``deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.''

It is time for Congress to uphold the Constitution and take action. Support this resolution and protect these Americans--all Americans.

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