Pelosi Statement on International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi today released this statement on the commemoration of the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia:

"No person deserves to live in fear of discrimination or intimidation because of who they are or who they love – not here in the United States, not anywhere. Today, as every day, we stand united with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people around the world in affirming the human rights and dignity all people deserve.

"On International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia and every day, we rededicate ourselves to breaking down bigotry wherever it exists. Too many people around the world face arrest, violence, and death simply for believing that LGBT people are entitled to basic human dignity.

"We must continue to strive for justice and equality in the United States and around the world. Brick by brick, we are dismantling discrimination in the United States – passing a fully inclusive hate crimes law, ending 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' and now looking toward marriage equality for all on the horizon – but we must keep moving forward in creating a world where all people are empowered with the respect needed to thrive. We must continue to support LGBT people around the world in their fight for dignity, equality and justice. "

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