In a world that has slowly but steadily progressed towards LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance, the election of Mike Johnson as the Speaker of the House marks a troubling shift in American politics. As a gay individual who once grappled with the fear of coming out to a religious family when same-sex marriage was illegal, the progress achieved over the years is now under threat.
An Extremist Speaker
Mike Johnson’s ascent to the position of Speaker of the House has left the LGBTQ+ community apprehensive. His record of discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals is concerning, as he has advocated for upholding bans on same-sex marriage, fought against inclusion of gay couples in employment benefits, and even made disturbing comparisons between gay marriage and bestiality. These stances cast a shadow of doubt over his commitment to protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals during his tenure.
A Shared Apprehension
This apprehension is not unique to just one individual. People like Mads Stirling, a nonbinary trans person who came out in 2021, share similar fears. While undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and making critical changes like updating their driver’s license gender marker, Mads observed how Republican-led states rolled back rights for trans individuals. Mike Johnson contributed to this troubling climate by supporting bans on gender-affirming care for transgender youth and endorsing a slew of anti-LGBTQ bills in 2023. As Speaker, he now possesses the potential to undermine vital protections, including federal nondiscrimination laws.
The Struggle Continues
It is disheartening to witness a nation where 70% of Americans support gay marriage being led by a Speaker who opposes it vehemently. The fight for LGBTQ+ rights should not regress in 2023, especially when gender-affirming care has been shown to reduce suicidality in trans individuals. The power to spread hatred toward any group of people for simply existing is unacceptable.
A Call for Better Leadership
The Speaker of the House should be a voice for all Americans, representing their interests and embodying the role of a leader. However, it is impossible for many in the LGBTQ+ community to believe that Mike Johnson, and the Republican Party he represents, can truly stand for their rights. The party’s history demonstrates that protecting and uplifting LGBTQ+ people is not a priority.
A Hope for Change
America deserves better than this. It is vital to resist and oppose Johnson’s harmful rhetoric and extremist policies. The LGBTQ+ community and its allies must persist in electing representatives who will champion LGBTQ+ rights and staunchly defend them. In the face of such challenges, the fight for equality must continue so that no one with views like Johnson’s can assume a place in Congress.
In conclusion, the LGBTQ+ community stands united against Mike Johnson’s divisive agenda, demanding leadership that truly reflects the values of the American people and the principles of equality.