Throughout my time in public service, I have fought for full equality for all Americans, including members of the LGBTQI+ community. As Minority Leader of the Florida State House, I helped pass the first state legislation in the country to prohibit discrimination based on HIV/AIDS status.

In Congress, I am a proud member of the Congressional Equality Caucus, which fights for equal rights, the repeal of discriminatory laws, the elimination of hate-motivated violence, and improved health and well-being for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. I am a proud original cosponsor of the Equality Act, which would explicitly protect individuals from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. If enacted, it would ensure protection against discrimination in employment, housing, credit, education, public spaces, and federal programs. As states like Florida continue to attack the LGBTQI+ community, I will always keep fighting for equal rights for all Americans—regardless of who they are or who they love.