The fight for LGBTQIA+ equality is not over

Pride is a time when we honor the achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community and celebrate people for being their authentic selves.

The LGBTQIA+ community has fought for equality for decades. They have been denied rights simply for being who they are and because of who they love.

But even now, the LGBTQIA+ community still faces barriers and discrimination in our country. Twenty-nine states have minimal or no anti-discrimination laws for the LGBTQIA+ community.

And right-wing politicians are ramping up their hateful and bigoted attacks on the LGBTQIA+ community, especially targeting trans youth. It's unconscionable to attack young people for simply being who they are.

Hateful politicians have introduced nearly 400 bills attacking the LGBTQIA+ community in the last year alone. We have a responsibility to stand up to this hatred and bigotry and do everything we can to stop these state laws from moving forward.

The patchwork of state laws is one reason why I'm a proud supporter of the Equality Act, federal legislation that will give everyone the freedom to be their authentic self and is treated equally under the law no matter what state they call home. And it's why I'm leading the fight to provide essential services to our LGBTQIA+ elders.

We need to get it done.

We all have the right to live a life free of prejudice and discrimination. That's what I'll keep fighting for in Congress.

Suzanne