President Biden issued a historic & sweeping executive order aimed at addressing multiple facets of discrimination against LGBTQ Americans. The order coinciding with Pride Month addresses the wave of anti-LGBTQ bills being introduced & passed in dozens of states across the country this year as well as the mental & physical health of our LGBTQ youth. It also announces a new initiative to protect LGBTQ foster youth & prevent homelessness & finally blocks federal funding for the dangerous & discredited practice of conversion therapy. The first of its kind Executive Order also includes explicit direction for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) to publish a long-term care “Bill of Rights for LGBTQ Older Adults” & new guidance on the nondiscrimination protections for older people in long-term care settings. Imani Rupert-Gordon, NCLR Executive Director stated, “Especially in the midst of some of the most vicious attacks our community has ever faced, we are grateful to the President & this administration for embracing LGBTQI+ people & our families as full-fledged members of this nation who deserve equal consideration, protections, resources & support. This Executive Order is unprecedented in its recognition of the broad scope of issues that affect LGBTQI+ individuals from youth to old age.” Michael Adams SAGE CEO added, “This Executive Order builds on Congresswoman Bonamici’s Ruthie & Connie LGBTQ+ Elder Americans Act & takes a critical step forward in protecting & supporting LGBTQ+ elders, who face higher rates of poverty, acute social isolation & severe challenges accessing culturally competent services & supports.” Activist Ruthie Berman concluded, “Thank you, President Biden, for recognizing the health & welfare of LGBTQ+ elders who have given a great deal to the betterment of this country.”
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