Friend,

 

Yesterday the Supreme Court handed down a landmark ruling that protects LGBTQ employees from discrimination on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This is a win for LGBTQ people everywhere — especially the plaintiffs in these cases, Gerald Bostock, Don Zarda, and Aimee Stephens. 

 

Don and Aimee passed away before they could see their courageous work come to fruition. I’m grateful for their courage to stand up for what is right. And I’m so proud of the lawyers and advocates who fought this case – and fought for our values. This win was never a given.

 

But let’s be clear – our work here has just begun. Donald Trump’s lawyers were in court arguing against these protections for gay and transgender workers. And just last week, they announced plans to roll back Obama-era health care protections for people who are transgender.

 

We also cannot stand by while Black trans people are subjected to horrifying violence. Rem’mie Fells, Riah Milton, Tony McDade – we must do more than mourn their lives. We need to honor them with action. They deserve a government that protects them.

 

Every time a politician attacks LGBTQ people – particularly Black trans women – they contribute to a culture of hate and violence. We cannot allow Republicans to demonize, politicize, or alienate LGBTQ people – at any level of government. We need to elect candidates who are champions for the LGBTQ community. We need elected officials at all levels to codify protections for LGBTQ people in the workplace and beyond. 

 

I’m going to work my heart out for Joe Biden and Democratic candidates up and down the ballot from now until November. Will you join me by committing to vote for LGBTQ champions in 2020? Once you’ve signed, please forward this to five friends and encourage them to make the commitment as well.

 

COMMIT TO VOTE

 

Thank you,