Rep. Mark Takano Statement on President Obama’s Executive Order Protecting LGBT Employees

Washington, DC – Rep. Mark Takano released the following statement after President Obama signed an executive order that bans discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity for federal contractors:

 

“Today’s executive order signed by President Obama represents what millions of LGBT families and activists have fought for for decades – fairness and equality. It is a simple idea that says nobody should be fired from their job because of who they are or who they love. 

 

“However, while today’s executive order will protect many Americans, millions of others are still vulnerable to discrimination. To rectify this, Congress must pass a strong Employment Non-Discrimination Act. Bigotry and discrimination do not belong in our nation, and we should be doing all we can to ensure that every American receives a basic standard of fairness and is treated with the respect they deserve.”