In a stark warning to LGBTQ Americans and their loved ones, the country’s largest gay rights organization Tuesday issued a “state of emergency” over anti-LGBTQ laws passed across the U.S.
The Human Rights Campaign said its emergency declaration, the first in its more than 40-year history, comes after more than 75 anti-LGBTQ bills have been signed into law in various states this year, more than doubling last year’s number, which was previously the worst year on record.
Conservative lawmakers have focused their efforts on enacting laws banning drag performances, gender-affirming care, LGBTQ-inclusive education, inclusive bathrooms and laws attacking transgender athletes’ ability to play sports, according to the HRC.
“The multiplying threats facing millions in our community are not just perceived — they are real, tangible and dangerous,” said HRC president Kelley Robinson in a press release. “In many cases they are resulting in violence against LGBTQ+ people, forcing families to uproot their lives and flee their homes in search of safer states.”
Here’s what to know about the HRC’s announcement:
What does the ‘state of emergency’ say?
The HRC said it’s declaring an emergency over LGBTQ rights so people and their families in hostile states can try to better protect themselves from anti-LGBTQ hate.
People traveling to or through states that have passed some of the most severe anti-LGBTQ laws should be prepared to experience homophobia, transphobia or even violence, the organization said Tuesday.
“Our number one priority will always be ensuring that LGBTQ+ people are safe and have the tools they need to defend and protect themselves against acts of hostility, discrimination and — in the most extreme cases — violence,” Robinson said.
Part of the HRC’s declaration includes a national warning and guidebook for LGBTQ Americans to know their rights and to access health and safety resources. The guidebook also includes a state-by-state list of anti-LGBTQ laws, the HRC said.
MAPWhere it’s a crime to be gay around the world
How many anti-LGBTQ bills have been passed?
The 2023 state legislative session was the worst year on record for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, the HRC says.
- More than 525 bills were introduced in 41 states.
- Over 76 bills have been signed into law in various states as of June 5, 2023 — more than any year on record, and more than double last year, the HRC says.
- 21 states have bans in place prohibiting transgender girls from playing on the same sports teams as cisgender girls.
- 20 states have banned gender-affirming care, the medical treatment for gender dysphoria. Most of the bans apply to youths, but some include prohibitions on gender-affirming care for adults.
- 9 states have passed laws that force transgender women to use restrooms alongside cisgender men, and transgender men to use restrooms alongside cisgender women.
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