Washington, DC – Today LGBTQ Victory Institute hailed the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Title VII’s sex discrimination provision, with six of the nine justices ruling it protects LGBTQ people from discrimination in employment.
Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Institute, released the following statement about the ruling:
“Millions of LGBTQ people across the country have feared losing their jobs and their livelihoods because of their sexual orientation or gender identity and today’s landmark ruling is a powerful step forward toward ending that reality. But the ruling is specifically tied to employment and it remains legal for LGBTQ people to be discriminated against in restaurants, hospitals and other public accommodations. It is time for the U.S. Congress to pass the Equality Act and finally end legalized discrimination against LGBTQ people in America, and for states to pass non-discrimination laws that provide accessible avenues for legal recourse. The best way to secure these protections is to ensure LGBTQ elected officials are in the halls of power to influence the debate and change hearts and minds.
“While the ruling is an important moment in our movement for equality, we cannot fully celebrate as we continue to protest the racism and police brutality that Black people, including Black LGBTQ people, face every day in America. The ruling is a step toward justice, but it is a reminder of the discrimination people of color, and especially Black people, continue to face despite legal protections under Title VII. As the unforgettable Marsha P. Johnson once said: ‘No pride for some of us without liberation for all of us.’ Our nation has much work to do.”
About LGBTQ Victory Institute
LGBTQ Victory Institute works to increase the number of LGBTQ people in public office and to provide programming, service, and other support to ensure their success.
