I first came out in college, folks.
Back then, I knew I was interested in a career in public service, and I feared that I would face a serious choice between pursuing the field of my dreams or living my authentic life openly.
Seeing others in the LGBTQ community demonstrate acts of courage by coming out, being themselves, and being public about who they are and who they love — I came to realize that I could do both. I could run for office and be honest about who I am.
When I became the first openly gay Senator in our nation's history, I understood that I needed to be use this extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people's lives. That's why I ran for office in the first place — not to make history, but to make a difference. And folks like you supported me because you wanted to make a difference, too. Now, I'm asking you to keep going.
This Pride Month, I hope you will join me in continuing our fight to ensure all LGBTQ Americans can finally have the freedom of full equality and protection under federal law. Add your name to join the fight and call on Congress to pass the Equality Act.
Over the years, we have made incredible progress in the fight for equality. But folks, we cannot mistake that progress for victory.
Republican-held state legislatures across the country are actively attacking our progress, especially targeting transgender people and LGBTQ youth.
Earlier this year, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill into law, banning teachers from teaching critical lessons about the LGBTQ community, sexual orientation, and gender identity. And just this week, the North Carolina state legislature passed their own version of that bill — creating unsafe learning environments that will further stigmatize and harm the well-being of LGBTQ youth.
None of these attacks are new for the LGBTQ community. In a majority of states, LGBTQ Americans live without non-discrimination laws and still face discrimination because of who they are, who they love, or what their family looks like. It’s on all of us to fight back.
Now more than ever, we need to pass the Equality Act so we can guarantee every LGBTQ American the full freedom of equality and protection under federal law. If you’re with me, add your name to my petition demanding the Senate pass this legislation immediately.
As we celebrate Pride Month and the incredible activists and members of the LGBTQ community who have fought so hard for progress, let’s also recommit ourselves to continue working toward the day when all LGBTQ Americans can live in a world where they feel safe, accepted, and loved.
Thank you and Happy Pride!
— Tammy
