Momentous Equality Act Passed in U.S. Congress

On Friday, May 17, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a measure that would add sexual orientation and transgender status as protected classes to the national anti-discrimination laws that have existed for decades. This crucial bill was introduced by Rhode Island's own David Cicilline, a Democrat, and was co-sponsored by 240 others, including three Republicans. It protects against discrimination in housing, employment, credit, and other important facets of life.

Some observers noted that the bill had been blocked in "committee-referral purgatory" by Republicans. They urge Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to avoid repeating this mistake, and to immediately call a vote on it in that body .