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Statement on President Obama's signing of Executive Order banning Federal Contractors from engaging in Workplace Discrimination against LGBT individuals

July 21, 2014

Washington, D.C.– Rep. Jan Schakowsky released the following statement after President Obama signed his executive order banning federal contractors from workplace discrimination based on actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity:

“As a founding member of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, I am committed to ensuring that this community has the same legal protections as everyone else. The President’s Executive Order extends critical workplace protections for thousands of Americans employed by federal contractors, and I applaud it.

It is unconscionable that workers should have to fear harassment, lack of advancement or worse because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. While this Executive Order will protect federal contract workers from those threats, many other Americans still face discrimination in obtaining a job, or while they are on the job. That must stop.

Now we must strengthen and pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act to extend protections to all workers around the country. ENDA passed the United States Senate, and it is time for the House Republican leadership to allow a vote on this measure so it can be signed into law.”

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