Celebrating LGBT Pride Month
WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) pledges to stand by the LGBT community and continue fighting to achieve equal rights for all Americans during LGBT Pride Month.
Below is a video and transcript of the speech.
Hello, I'm Mike Quigley.
This June, please join me in celebrating LGBT Pride Month, when we honor the tireless determination and enduring struggle of our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
The LGBT community's history is one of standing strong in the face of bigotry, discrimination and violence.
With its continued perseverance, the LGBT rights movement has made remarkable progress in recent years in demanding equality throughout our country.
Because of their hard work and dedication, 37 states and the District of Columbia enjoy marriage equality, encompassing 70 percent of the American population.
The pursuit of nationwide marriage equality continues.
Currently, the Supreme Court is considering a case that will hopefully affirm, once and for all, that same-sex marriage is a right guaranteed by the Constitution.
I recently joined other Members of Congress on an amicus brief to the Court in these cases because it is my hope that all Americans can be assured the same rights under the law, no matter who they love.
As Vice-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus, I'm also working hard to advance critical legislation in Congress to support LGBT children and families and provide equality to all Americans.
While we strive to achieve full equality for LGBT Americans, significant barriers still hamper our progress.
But I pledge to stand by the community and continue fighting to achieve equal rights for all Americans.
I look forward to one day soon when equal rights are extended to all our citizens once and for all,
So that no American is denied equality because of the person they love.
It's a day that's coming soon.
Please join me in celebrating LGBT Pride Month and the ongoing fight for equality.
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