|
John,
Across the country, lawmakers have introduced and passed a record-breaking number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills. Many target transgender young people and attempt to block access to medically necessary, life-saving care.
This is a traumatic time. According to the Trevor Project, 94% of LGBTQ youth reported that recent politics negatively impacted their mental health. 42% of LGBTQ youth (and more than half of transgender and nonbinary youth) seriously considered attempting suicide.1
Today is National PTSD Awareness Day, and it’s more urgent than ever to show up in solidarity for LGBTQ+ people.
As a member of the Congressional Equality Caucus, I joined my colleagues last week in reintroducing the Equality Act, to send a clear message that LGBTQ+ people deserve the same human dignity and legal protections from discrimination as every other American.
Please sign on today in support of the Equality Act and in support of LGBTQ+ people.
The Equality Act would protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination in employment, housing, transportation, medical settings, education, and more.
According to the Trevor Project, nearly a third of LGBTQ+ young people have experienced homelessness or housing instability, often due to their families’ lack of acceptance of their sexual or gender identity.2 LGBTQ+ adults also face housing and lending discrimination that can increase rates of homelessness.
This is unacceptable. LGBTQ people deserve to be and to feel safe as their full, authentic selves.
That’s why my team and I have secured $1 million in federal funding to support the Ruth Ellis Center, which provides safe, affordable, identity-affirming housing for marginalized Black and brown Detroiters, especially LGBTQ+ young people.
Mother Ruth Ellis came out as a lesbian around 1915. She took in unhoused LGBTQ+ youth and her home became known as a refuge for LGBTQ+ young people.
Let’s honor her legacy by continuing to create affirming and safe spaces for LGTBQ+ people, and by fighting against transphobic and homophobic discrimination.
Please add your name now to support the Equality Act.
No matter your gender identity or sexual orientation, I will keep fighting in solidarity for your safety, liberation, and human rights.
Always serving you,
Rashida
P.S. We’re nearing the end of Pride Month, but solidarity is essential year-round. Here’s a resource from the Trevor Project about being an ally to trans and non-binary youth.
For young people under 25 years old, the Trevor Project offers support if you call 866-488-7386, text START to 678678, or by online chat. If you’re a trans or non-binary adult in crisis, the Trans Lifeline’s Hotline is a peer support line at 877-565-8860.
1. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2021/
2. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/research-briefs/homelessness-and-housing-instability-among-lgbtq-youth-feb-2022/
|
