Friends --

Earlier this week, the Supreme Court heard arguments on three cases that will determine whether the Constitution extends the same civil and human rights protections to LGBTQ Americans as it does for others.

Federal laws protect people from discrimination based on race, religion, sex, and age. But there are no federal laws barring discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.

As a result, 28 states still allow LGBTQ Americans to be fired from their jobs just for being who they are. For transgender Americans, it's allowed in 29 states.

It’s shameful, and it’s difficult to overstate just how important the outcomes of these cases will be. And as they are being litigated, it’s important that the American people stand united and on the right side of history.

I'm hopeful that we will get a favorable ruling, and I’m proud to stand with LGBTQ Americans every day in Congress. One of the highlights of my first year as an elected representative was voting to pass the Equality Act in the House.

The LGBTQ movement has fought for every inch of progress, and we can’t stop until every American has equal rights and legal protections from discrimination.

I will continue to be an ally in that fight, and I’m thankful to have you by my side.

TJ