Reid Statement On President Obama's Executive Order Protecting LGBT Federal Workers

Statement

Nevada Senator Harry Reid released the following statement today after President Obama signed an Executive Order banning federal contractors from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in federal employment:

"President Obama's action is a strong first step to protect LGBT Americans from discrimination in the federal workplace. This Executive Order will protect 11 million lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Americans. It puts in place critical protections that most Fortune 500 companies already have for their employees and it ensures that federal contractors attract, hire, and retain a diverse and talented workforce.

"However, millions of LGBT Americans still lack the workplace protection they deserve. In 29 states, LGBT Americans can still be fired by their employer for simply being honest about who they are. Earlier this year, Senate Democrats acted to fix this wrong and passed the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). House Republicans have refused to consider ENDA, ignoring the will of the vast majority of Americans who believe that LGBT Americans deserve the same dignity and respect as their straight colleagues in the workplace. The votes are there to pass ENDA and it is long past time Speaker Boehner took it up.

"All hardworking Americans deserve to be judged based on the quality of theirwork, not their gender identity or who they love. Senate Democrats will continue to work on legislation that protects American workers and ensures a fair shot for all."

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