Adams' Statement on the Passage of H.R. 5, The Equality Act

Washington, DC — Congresswoman Alma S. Adams (NC-12) issued the following statement after voting for the passage of H.R. 5, the Equality Act. The bill amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to protect LGBTQ Americans from discrimination.

"Equal treatment under the law is one of the core values of this country. Yet, even in 2019, only 21 states have laws preventing discrimination based on sexual orientation. As a result, millions of LGBTQ Americans are treated as second-class citizens, facing discrimination in employment, education, housing, and other areas.

Everyone deserves equal treatment under the law, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or the state they live in. North Carolina is home to more than 320,000 LGBTQ adults, and yet the state ranks among the lowest in the nation for LGBTQ equality. Everyone deserves to live without fear of harm or discrimination due to their gender identity or sexual orientation. I was proud to cast my vote for H.R. 5, the Equality Act."

###