Bill introduced in Senate to affirm U.S. commitment to international LGBT rights

BOSTON — As the nation celebrates National LBGT Pride Month, U.S. Sen. Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on International Development and Foreign Assistance, on Friday introduced legislation that would affirm LGBT human rights are a foreign policy priority for the U.S. government.

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More than 80 nations around the world have laws that criminalize homosexuality, prohibit public support for the LGBT community, or promote homophobia. In seven countries, homosexuality is punishable by death. The adoption of these laws has sped up in recent years, and the effects of discriminatory laws can be felt throughout society.

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“For the United States to hold true to our commitment to defending the human rights of all people around the world, we must stand with the LGBT community in their struggle for recognition and equality everywhere,” said Markey.

“The International Human Rights Defense Act will foster a coordinated effort across the federal government and relevant agencies so we can meet the enormous challenge before us and work to ensure equality for all people around the globe,” he added.

http://www.lgbtqnation.com/2014/06/bill-introduced-in-senate-to-affirm-u-s-commitment-to-international-lgbt-rights/#.U5xx8s4Ym-k.facebook

My Senator.