Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 3685, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. This important measure demonstrates Congress’s commitment to combating prejudice and ensures that Americans will not be denied access to employment because of their sexual orientation.

Current federal law prevents employment discrimination on the basis of race, gender, religion, national origin or disability.  As a person with a disability, I know how important those federal protections are for people who want to contribute to the workforce.  Unfortunately, too many Americans are still able to be fired based on their sexual orientation.  I am proud I come from a state where discrimination based on sexual orientation is against the law, but in 30 states, a person may be fired from a job simply for being gay, lesbian or bisexual.  We need a strong federal law to protect those Americans and end a practice that is contrary to the American promise of equality and opportunity for all. 

The Employment Non-Discrimination Act would prohibit employers from using an individual’s sexual orientation as the sole basis for employment decisions.  As previously mentioned, Rhode Island is one of twenty states that have comparable state laws.  Similarly, a growing number of companies are incorporating non-discrimination policies because they recognize that they should be recruiting and retaining the best individuals for the job, irrespective of a person’s sexual orientation.  However, despite these advances, too many Americans still face discrimination in the workplace.  Today we have the opportunity to make a stand for civil rights and equality by passing ENDA.

I also want to voice my strong support for an amendment to be offered by the gentlewoman from Wisconsin, Ms. Baldwin, which would prevent discrimination based on gender identity.  Rhode Island is one of twelve states that protect gender identity in employment, and our experience has been a positive one.  Transgender individuals often have their own set of challenges in the workplace, and we must ensure that their rights are protected as well.  I am deeply disappointed that the underlying bill does not include gender identity, especially as I am a cosponsor of a fully inclusive ENDA.  Today, the House of Representatives is sending a clear message to the nation that no American should face discrimination at work or in society, and I think we are missing an unprecedented opportunity to make the measure as inclusive as possible.  However, if the Baldwin amendment is unsuccessful, I pledge to work with her and other supporters to see this important provision enacted into law.

I would like to thank everyone who contributed to developing this legislation and bringing it to the floor for a historic vote.  I urge all of my colleagues to make a strong stand for equal rights and support H.R. 3685.