Source: The News & Observer
As a host of anti-LGBTQ bills are introduced across the U.S., advocates, elected leaders and communities are centering discussions surrounding key issues throughout Pride Month. In North Carolina, LGBTQ+ groups are condemning discriminatory bills and seeking protections for trans youth.
“We are united, unwavering, to protecting the progress we’ve made, creating safer and more supportive environments for our youth, and ensuring all individuals regardless of their gender identity can live free from discrimination and fear,” stated Gaby Garcia-Vera, interim deputy director of La Fuerza NC, at a rally earlier this month.
In the past year, state Republican lawmakers have passed bills that banned transgender women from participating in sports aligned with their gender identity, banned gender-affirming medical care and erased LGBTQ+ curricula in schools.
According to the American Civil Liberties Union, over 500 anti-LGBTQ bills were introduced in state legislatures across the country last year. Eighty-four of those discriminatory bills became laws.
This year, more than 475 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been proposed, with North Carolina Republican lawmakers introducing six so far.
On the campaign trail, the Republican gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson has alluded to bringing back controversial measures from the “bathroom bill” that led to national headlines and economic boycotts in North Carolina.
According to The News & Observer, Trump said he would repeal an executive order issued by the Biden administration that includes sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes under Title IX.
“With Joe Biden, we have a president who fights for the freedom and respect and the dignity of every American — no matter who they are or who they love,” stated Rep. Marcia Morey at the rally. “With Donald Trump, we are all at risk.”
