Democratic presidential candidate
Hillary Rodham Clinton on Thursday released a landmark policy paper
addressing issues which affect the LGBT community.
Clinton's policy proposal is the first
issued by any of the 2016 presidential candidates.
Clinton calls for passage of the
Equality Act, banning conversion therapy for minors, protecting the
rights of transgender people, and much more.
The paper's introduction praises the
Supreme Court's June finding that gay and lesbian couples have a
constitutional right to marry, then adds “our work to reach the
promise of full equality remains unfinished.”
“LGBT kids continue to be
discriminated against and bullied at school, a restaurant can refuse
to serve a transgender person, and a same-sex couple is at risk of
being evicted from their home,” the
document states. “Hillary Clinton believes that we must stand
firm and keep fighting until every American can not only marry, but
also live, work, pray, learn and raise a family free from
discrimination and prejudice. She believes that America is at its
best when we are inclusive, open, and striving towards true
equality.”
National Center for Lesbian Rights
(NCLR) Executive Director Kate Kendell applauded Clinton's move.
“The policy positions announced today
by Hillary Clinton sketch a bold vision for our community in this
country and beyond,” Kendell said in a statement. “We applaud
Secretary Clinton for her audacious and uncompromising support for a
range of policy initiatives which, if realized, would improve the
lives and futures of every lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender
person in our nation and the world. By addressing issues like
parenting and adoption, protections for LGBT youth, conversion
therapy, violence against transgender people and transgender service
in the military, and health care access for people with HIV –
issues which have long been part of NCLR’s work – Secretary
Clinton reflects a genuine understanding of the issues facing LGBT
people and their families. Her passionate support is extremely
gratifying.”
Rick Zbur, executive director of
Equality California, also offered praise.
“There can be no doubt Hillary
Clinton will be a strong ally in the White House to the LGBT
community,” he said in a statement. “Her policy platform on LGBT
issues is truly groundbreaking.”