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Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) issued the following statement in light of bigotry-laced anti-transgender remarks made on the House floor and on social media yesterday, as the House prepares to vote on the Equality Act: 

“Yesterday, we heard vile attacks against the transgender community on the House floor, and, unfortunately, I anticipate there will be similarly bigoted statements made today as we prepare to vote on the historic Equality Act. I want the LGBTQ community, especially our transgender family, friends, and neighbors, to know that these attacks do not represent the United States Congress.

“While those who spew this hate like to gaslight with issues of bathrooms, locker rooms, and women’s sports, they ignore the true crises facing the transgender community. Transgender Americans face discrimination and disproportionate levels of violence, especially transgender women of color. Thirty percent of transgender Americans report experiencing homelessness, and the majority of those who did seek shelter say they were harassed or assaulted because of their identity. Transgender adolescents are far more likely to attempt suicide than their cisgender peers, and these kids are often bullied by other students in their schools. This week, they’re being bullied by Members of Congress.

“These bigoted words have real consequences, and LGBTQ Americans may even feel shamed and attacked by their own representatives for simply being who they are or loving who they love. Today is a historic day for equality, and it should and will be celebrated. I proudly stand with the LGBTQ community today and everyday, and look forward to casting my vote for the Equality Act.”

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