Before 2007, it was legal to kick any Oregonian out of a restaurant, or deny them a movie ticket or even fire them, just because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

So, as Speaker of the House, I led a broad, bipartisan coalition to pass the Oregon Equality Act because that kind of discrimination violates our most basic principles of fairness and equality.

In our nation today, we've made great progress on equality over the last few years. The Supreme Court has guaranteed the freedom to marry and barred workplace discrimination, but far too often, doors are slammed shut for LGBTQ Americans -- in stores, restaurants, hotels, and even housing.

Every one of us should be able to go shopping, or walk out of our homes, or show up for work without hiding our families away or pretending to be someone we're not. We must pass the Equality Act for the nation.

In 2019, it passed the House and was blocked by Mitch McConnell in the Senate. Now, in 2021, we must pass it through the House, the Senate, and finally deliver it to the White House for the President's signature. President Biden has committed to signing it and ensuring immediate and full enforcement across all federal departments and agencies

Will you sign this critical petition and support equality for all Americans? I need your voice loud and clear on this one.[link removed]

Onward!

Jeff

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Paid for by Jeff Merkley for Oregon.