Lately our elections, Supreme Court decisions, and MAGA Republican talking points have posed a fundamental question: Will we wind the clocks back, or will we continue to work towards the promise of liberty and justice for all?

The relentless smear campaigns on the LGBTQ+ community — from drag queen story time, to damaging lies and attempted attacks on character — have to stop. They are gross misrepresentations, a distraction from important issues, and just plain dangerous.

But still, in the face of the hate and vitriol, this community remains resilient, dedicated to living their truth, spreading joy, and inspiring others along the way.

This month, as communities across the country celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride events, I am grateful to be in a position to both attend these events at home in Washington and advocate for the advancement of our LGBTQ+ friends and family in Congress.

Because of their dedication, we have made monumental progress towards equality and the advancement of human and civil rights writ large. I will not allow the MAGA Republicans that are openly running on a platform calling to undo our progress to diminish these achievements.

This Pride month, please join me in celebrating our friends and family in the LGBTQ+ community. And as we look ahead, let us continue fighting for civil and human rights for all.

Rick