Rangel Marks LGBT Pride Month

Statement

Congressman Charles B. Rangel, who represents the 13th Congressional District of New York that includes Upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx, released the following statement in recognition of the annual National LGBT Pride Month:

"It is with great joy I recognize Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month, a time to mark the progress we have made as a nation to advance the rights of LGBT Americans, and equality for all. Discrimination has no place in our society and we must end bigotry in all its forms. I am very proud to stand with the many activists and equal rights leaders of our district and nation to support LGBT Americans.

Recent events, including the terrible attack at the Pulse gay night club in Orlando, have shown us that prejudice and hate remain all too prevalent in our society. This tragic event makes clear that we must continue to promote a world of tolerance, peace and love. The LGBT community has shown great resilience and resolve and we should stand in solidarity to show our support for LGBT Americans.

As a veteran, I take great pride in the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" which allowed LGBT service men and women to serve our country with pride; we must still restore the honor of the thousands of service members who were dishonorably discharged while the law was still in effect. I authored the "Restore Honor to Service Members Act" to ensure that those who valiantly defended our freedoms receive the recognition that they deserve. Let us celebrate LGBT Pride Month by embracing a world where we are all equal and free to pursue love and happiness. We must keep moving forward towards an America where one will not be judged by their color, gender, religion, or sexual orientation."

Source