GLBT Issues

For the Record: Gay rights are human rights. People should be treated fairly regardless of sexual orientation and same-sex couples deserve equal rights.

I have fought my whole life against discrimination of any people. Everyone is made in God’s image and should be treated fairly.

Legal recognition of same-sex relationships is one of the most important issues facing are society today. We must ensure persons who enter into a domestic partnership have similar rights and responsibilities as persons who marry. Marriage should not just be a right for heterosexual couples. It is a fundamental right that should be extended to all Americans. With the full support of the gay community, I sponsored HB 1344 to establish legal domestic partnerships. In recognition of our accomplishment, Boulder County PFLAG honored me with the Legislative Ally Award. I also carried a bill with Rep. Alice Madden to allow for second parent adoption.

Referendum I would have allowed same-sex couples to register their union and receive many of the same legal rights afforded married couples. I was a champion of Referendum I at the state legislature and was the Senate sponsor of the bill to put it on the ballot. Unfortunately the referendum failed, but the fight is not over and I will carry the fight to Congress.

While the House has passed the Employment Non-Discrimination Act with protections for transgender Americans, it has yet to become law. Discrimination by employers based on an employee’s actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity is something that must be addressed now.

Under my leadership at the state legislature, we passed SB 25 to prohibit employers considering sexual orientation, gender identity or expression when making employment-related decisions. The bill was originally vetoed by Governor Bill Owens, but was passed last year and it was signed by Governor Bill Ritter. I will bring this commitment to Congress and we will pass ENDA with protection for everyone, not because it is easy, but because it is the right thing to do.

Equal Rights Colorado has recognized our fight for basic human rights for gays and lesbians and has given me a 100 percent rating. Also, activists, such as Tim Gill are supporting my campaign. As the Rocky Mountain News said, “Gay Activists support Fitz-Gerald in 2nd District.”