Schakowsky Statement in Celebration of Pride Month

CHICAGO - Today, ahead of the Chicago Pride Parade, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement in celebration of Pride Month:

“Each June, we unite to celebrate Pride Month and uplift the resilience, beauty, and courage of our incredible LGBTQIA+ community. As the Representative of the 9th Congressional District, a place known for its rich diversity, I have made it my mission to advocate for basic human rights, including LGBTQIA+ rights, access to health care, marriage equality, and so much more. No person should ever face discrimination because of their gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation. Everyone deserves to be valued, respected, and celebrated exactly as they are. 

“The last couple of months have not been easy, especially for those in the LGBTQIA+ community. I am enraged, saddened, and disgusted by President Donald Trump’s efforts to dismantle LGBTQIA+ rights. Not only has he declared that there should only be two sexes, but he has also banned trans people from serving in the military and has restricted gender-affirming health care for trans youth. Trump and his administration only seek to divide us. These attacks are fueled by hatred and are unacceptable. 

“As the proud grandmother of a young trans man and a 2015 inductee into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame, I am unwavering in my commitment to uplift and support the LGBTQIA+ community. Just this month, I proudly cosponsored the PRIDE Act, which requires the equal treatment of same-sex married couples when filing for joint taxes. 

“This Pride Month, and every month, I vow to use my platform to fight for true and universal equality for all. I will continue to fight against all injustices, and I am confident that love and compassion will triumph.”

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