One Big Thing: Do you think the United States and the rest of the world are doing enough to protect the LGBT community?

What is it?

• On Monday, June 15, the Supreme Court ruled that federal workplace anti-discrimination laws protect gay and transgender employees under title VII of the civil rights act of 1964. Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote the opinion for the 6-3 ruling.  
• Global opinions vary on LGBT rights. On Saturday, June 13, Polish President Andrzej Duda unfairly accused the LGBT movement as “more harmful that communism”. Earlier this month, his opponent in the ongoing presidential election, Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, called for tolerance for gays and lesbians.
• LGBT Pride Month is celebrated each June to commemorate New York City’s Stonewall Riots of 1969. The month is a celebration equality for all, diversity, and acceptance of all people.

Why is it important?

• The LGBT movement has continuously made strides to attain legal recognition and protections in the United States. Today’s landmark Supreme Court decision continues to provide the legal basis for basic human rights for the LGBT community as well as societal acceptance. 
• However, around the world and at home, LGBT rights are constantly under attack. In some cases, outdated cultural beliefs have created homophobic stigmas while others have institutional and legal statues which infringe on LGBT rights.

What can you do?

• Check out a list of virtual Pride Month events happening in June 2020.
• Learn more about LGBT issues from Human Rights First and ways to address the issue from LBGT Map