June 1, 2023 Press Release WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today on LGBTQ+ Pride Month: “Happy Pride Month! LGBTQ+ Americans in Maryland’s 5th District and across the country make us a more resilient, creative, and enriched nation. “LGBTQ+ Americans have faced significant discrimination and challenges in this country, and like all Americans, deserve access to health care, education, housing, and the right to live in this country without fear. Additionally, we must stand up against a new wave of antiquated and extreme anti-LGBTQ+ legislation like Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill and many states’ bans on gender-affirming care. This bigotry and hate have no place in America. Throughout my time in Congress, I have sought to protect and expand LGBTQ+ rights and have supported the enactment of numerous bills to advance that mission, including the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act and the repeal of the discriminatory ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy. Last December, I was also proud to help enact the Respect For Marriage Act, which finally codified marriage equality for all Americans in federal statute. “Despite the progress we have made, we must keep striving for a more inclusive and brighter future for all LGBTQ+ people and, by extension, our entire nation. That effort must include the adoption of the Equality Act and other policies and pieces of legislation that ensure that every American receives equal protection under the law – just as our Constitution promises. House Democrats, the Congressional Equality Caucus, and I will continue to advocate with LGBTQ+ Americans and to fight for policies that reflect the American principles of equality and justice for all.”