Today I came across an article that stated that a new caucus had been formed in the US congress. The new caucus will focus on advancing equal rights for the LGBT community. More below:
More on the caucus
Reps. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., and Barney Frank, D-Mass. announced today the formation of the LGBT Equality Caucus. The 52-member bipartisan group, which includes two Republicans, is the first congressional caucus with the express purpose of advancing equal rights for LGBT people, repealing discriminatory laws and educating lawmakers on gay issues.
.....
Baldwin told The Advocate that the caucus' primary concern this session is "to educate and prepare for major legislative victories" once a supportive commander in chief steps in the White House.
She referenced the Matthew Shepard Act expanding hate-crimes legislation and the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). President Bush had threatened to veto both, but neither made it to his desk.
The caucus will be bipartisan and currently has two republican members.
Baldwin noted the significance of launching the caucus with bipartisan support.
"We have to have the most effective communication possible with both sides," she said. "Our Republican charter members will be great at educating and being role models for their side of the aisle."
The two Republicans are Connecticut's Chris Shays and Florida's Ileana Ros-Lehtinen; others are expected to join this week.
......
"We have an administration that doesn't include LGBT rights as a part of human rights," Baldwin said. "Congress needs to speak up when we hear of mass arrests or asylum issues."
If your member of congress (particularly if they are a Democrat) is not part of the progressive LGBT Equality Caucus please call them and encourage them to join. If your member of congress is a charter member of the caucus please thank them for supporting equality.
With a supportive President Obama the caucus could do great things for the LGBT community as well as our country.