Dear John, 

With just weeks left before the Senate goes on August recess, we need your help! Lawmakers have yet to pass the Equality Act, which would protect our LGBTQ friends, including young transgender athletes, from discrimination across all areas of life.

So far this year, 37 states have already introduced over 170 bills targeting transgender people. Twenty-four have been made into law. These bills discriminate against transgender people in all areas of life, from recreational sports in school to gender-affirming healthcare to the use of public restrooms. LGBTQ rights across America are under attack.

If we want to protect the LGBTQ community, we have to enact explicit comprehensive protections. That’s why we need to pass the Equality Act. The Equality Act will create protections for the LGBTQ community in education, housing, employment, and more. The Equality Act will also clarify that the federal government cannot use religion to discriminate against LGBTQ individuals.

All Americans, including the LGBTQ community, should have the opportunity to provide for themselves and their families, meet their obligations, PLAY SPORTS, live free from discrimination, and build a better life. Let’s pass the Equality Act. It’s time to make that a reality.

The Equality Act has already made it through the House. Now, it’s up to us to push it through the Senate. We can’t let this bill get left behind for other priorities.

Best, 

Edwith Theogene
Director of Advocacy
Generation Progress

P.S. Want more information on the importance of sports participation for transgender youth? Check out this piece from our partners at the Center for American Progress.