Across the country, transgender individuals are facing an assault on their basic human rights. That’s why we must stand up to discrimination and protect the rights of every New Yorker. Today, the Assembly Majority once again passed the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA) (A.4558-B), sending the message that intolerance has no place in our state.

Sadly, transgender individuals often experience housing and employment discrimination, are refused service or face physical violence because of their gender identity. While the state protects against discrimination based on sex, race, age, creed, nationality, disability, military status, marital status and sexual orientation, it has not yet extended this important protection to transgender people.

New Yorkers should feel safe and wanted, and be comfortable living the lives they want to live. It’s time for the Senate to join us in extending protections to all citizens of this great state.

For more information on GENDA or any other legislative issue, please contact the community office of Assembly Member Rebecca A. Seawright at 212.288.4607.