United States Capitol Building. (Getty/Canvas)
Support for LGBTQ+ rights is declining in the U.S. Congress, according to a report by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC).
The onslaught of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and the hijacking of key legislation to ensure passage of anti-LGBTQ+ policies are just some of the key issues raised in HRC’s latest Congressional Scorecard.
The biannual review of the state of LGBTQ+ equality across the U.S. Congress, released on Monday (October 21), found that the 118th Congress was a “tumultuous period” of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.
The review’s biggest concern was with recent efforts by anti-LGBTQ+ lawmakers to push homophobic policies into “must-pass” legislation.
Mandatory legislation is legislation that is considered essential to enact each year to keep the United States and its government functioning. These typically include economic and appropriation laws such as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
More than 100 anti-LGBTQ+ riders are cornered with bills to pass. (Getty)
However, HRC found that more than 100 anti-LGBTQ+ provisions have been added to such laws since the 118th Congress began in January 2023. These provisions include policies such as prohibiting enforcement of civil rights protections, restricting trans health care, and eliminating transgender discrimination. Strengthening diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
“Americans deserve leaders who will move our country forward beyond the politics of divide and rule,” said HRC President Kelly Robinson. “House Republican leadership has responded with an unprecedented onslaught of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that seeks to roll back our country’s progress.”
Despite these efforts, pro-LGBTQ+ lawmakers are fighting back.
Passed in December, the NDAA cleared the floor with the defeat of more than 50 anti-LGBTQ+ riders. Additionally, the number of openly LGBTQ+ officials has increased over the past two years, with the appointment of the first Black lesbian senator, LaFonza Butler.
“Alongside HRC and the LGBTQ+ community, equality advocates in Washington stood firm and stopped this attack on our health care and fundamental freedoms from passing,” Robinson continued. “From the recognition of historically openly LGBTQ+ officials, judges, and ambassadors to the fight for voting rights and reproductive freedom, equality advocates made their values clear in this Congress.
“Leadership matters, and we are proud to stand with the members of Congress who have worked hard to counter anti-LGBTQ+ attacks and advance freedom and equality for all.”
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