Right now, queer Tennesseans are under attack. The Trump administration is rolling back protections, targeting transgender youth, and emboldening discrimination in every corner of our society. In East Tennessee, our LGBTQ+ neighbors are being told they don't deserve the basic rights and protections enshrined in our Constitution.

Every person deserves equal protection under the law. Whether you're applying for a job, trying to rent an apartment, eating at a restaurant, or enrolling your kids in school, you shouldn't face discrimination because of who you are or who you love.

The Equality Act would fix this by extending the same civil rights protections we already have for race and religion to include sexual orientation and gender identity. This isn't about special rights - it's about equal rights.

Here's what real equality looks like:

• Ending discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations so LGBTQ+ people can work, live, and participate in their communities without fear.

• Protecting LGBTQ+ students in schools and ensuring they have safe, supportive learning environments free from harassment and discrimination.

• Banning the harmful practice of conversion therapy that causes documented psychological harm to LGBTQ+ youth and undermines their sense of self-worth.

• Ensuring equal access to adoption and foster care services so LGBTQ+ families can provide loving homes to children who need them - expanding options for kids in the system, not limiting them.

• Guaranteed equal access to credit and financial services so sexual orientation and gender identity can't be used to deny mortgages, loans, or basic banking services.

I’m fighting for everyone to have the same opportunities to build careers, raise families, and contribute to their communities that everyone deserves. We're all stronger when everyone can show up as their full selves.