In a strong message of solidarity, President Joe Biden spoke out against the “ugly” and “unjustified” attacks on LGBTQ+ Americans, warning about the rise of hate crimes and discriminatory actions. He criticized the flurry of Republican bills that specifically target the LGBTQ+ community, expressing concern for the well-being of transgender youth. Biden emphasized that these individuals are not “somebody else’s kids” but part of a collective community that deserves respect and protection.
The president, originally scheduled to deliver remarks at a White House event, postponed his address due to the pervasive smoke caused by the Canadian wildfires. Biden’s determination to address the issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community was evident as he announced new measures aimed at supporting schools and LGBTQ+ children dealing with book bans. He also called for increased protection for Pride celebrations, marches, community centers, healthcare providers, and small businesses, urging Congress to pass the Equality Act.
Republican-led states have been at the forefront of implementing bills that negatively impact transgender youth. These bills include bans on discussing gender or sexuality in classrooms and restrictions on drag performances. In response, the White House has issued warnings about the dangerous precedent set by such legislation. As part of his commitment to protecting LGBTQ+ rights, President Biden appointed a new coordinator responsible for training schools on handling book bans and their impact on LGBTQ+ children, emphasizing the violation of civil rights laws.
Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has played a significant role in enacting restrictions that affect the LGBTQ+ community, positioning himself as a protector of children’s well-being. Recently, he announced his candidacy for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, potentially setting the stage for a clash with President Biden’s pro-LGBTQ+ policies.
President Biden’s own evolution on gay rights has been notable throughout his decades-long public career. In 2012, as vice president, he publicly endorsed same-sex marriage, prompting then-President Barack Obama to express his support soon after. As president, Biden has made substantial strides, overturning the ban on transgender individuals serving in the military, issuing an order to halt conversion therapy, and signing the Respect for Marriage Act into law, which federally recognizes same-sex marriages.
The continued progress of LGBTQ+ rights in the United States is evident in public opinion. Support for same-sex marriage has more than doubled since the late 1990s, with over 70% of Americans now in favor, according to Gallup polls. The number of individuals identifying as LGBTQ+ has also doubled over the past decade, surpassing 7%. Despite this positive trend, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the largest LGBTQ+ advocacy organization in the country, has declared a national state of emergency due to the proliferation of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in statehouses nationwide. With over 70 bills considered anti-LGBTQ+ passed this legislative session, the HRC highlights the urgent need for action.
President Biden’s unwavering commitment to protecting LGBTQ+ Americans sends a resounding message that they are loved and heard, and that his administration is dedicated to ensuring their rights and well-being. As the fight for equality continues, the efforts to combat hate crimes and discrimination must remain at the forefront of the national agenda.