This past November ushered in a Rainbow Wave of LGBTQ representatives into the halls of Congress. It’s easy to get complacent with these types of wins, but it’s important to keep momentum. I’ve always been politically active and the current political climate has spurred me to be even more persistent with my actions. Websites like 5 Calls and Resistbot are hugely important for improving the process of speaking up and being active. Even when I feel overwhelmed by the day’s news, it’s a relief to turn to these resources and have manageable tasks and avenues to participate. Celebrate this MLK Day by supporting the fight for LGBTQ rights and equality. Here are 5 things you can do to support our community.
Oppose Human Rights Opponent Neomi Rao For DC Circuit Judge
Donald Trump’s judicial nominee for the the DC Circuit has a history of writing inflammatory op-eds in college where she called LGBTQ issues a passing trend. Rao has no judicial experience, so her op-eds and legal writings form the basis of her qualifications. She’s also criticized advancements in LGBTQ rights like the decriminalization of gay sex and striking down of the Defense of Marriage Act. The DC Circuit is considered the 2nd most important court behind the Supreme Court.
Contact your representatives to oppose her nomination.
Oppose Anti-LGBTQ Howard Nielson Jr. For Federal Judgeship
Another judicial nominee, Howard Nielsen Jr, has a long history of bigotry. During the lawsuits over California’s Prop 8, Nielsen argued that Judge Walker (who ruled the proposition was unconstitutional) was incapable of ruling fairly because he’s gay. Nielson also argued against marriage equality in the landmark Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges where he argued that gay couples couldn’t raise children in stable and enduring family units.
Contact your representatives to oppose his nomination.
Oppose Anti-civil Rights Attorney Eric Murphy For The 6th Circuit
And yet another judicial nominee, Eric Murphy, has an anti-LGBTQ record from his time as the State Solicitor for Ohio. He also argued against marriage equality in Obergefell v. Hodges.
In Gloucester County School Board v. G.G, Murphy argued for discrimination against transgender students by not allowing them to use the bathroom corresponding with their gender identity.
Contact your representatives to oppose his nomination.
Equality Act
With Democrats in control of the House, Nancy Pelosi has said she would give the Equality Act high priority. This legislation would define sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics in existing federal civil rights legislation. This would protect the LGBTQ from discrimination when it comes to housing, public accomodations, and and employment.
Contact your representatives to support the Equality Act.
Find legislation in your state
Aside from these federal issues, there are numerous laws making their way through state houses. Oklahoma has 10 bills related to LGBTQ discrimination. Search for issues in your state and contact your state representative.
