Politics
Biden Pledges to Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights 'Every Day' in White House
Biden's message of support is in sharp contrast to the record of the White House's current occupant.
October 12 2020 2:05 PM EST
May 31 2023 4:07 PM EST
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Biden's message of support is in sharp contrast to the record of the White House's current occupant.
Former vice president and current Democratic nominee for president Joe Biden tweeted a message of affirmation and allyship yesterday in honor of National Coming Out Day. His words continue his strong record of support for the rights and needs of LGBTQ+ community.
"I want every member of the LGBTQ+ community to know you are loved and accepted just as you are -- whether you've come out or not," Biden proclaimed. "I'll fight every day in the White House to create a country where you can live open, proud, and free -- without fear."
\u201cI want every member of the LGBTQ+ community to know you are loved and accepted just as you are \u2014 whether you've come out or not. I'll fight every day in the White House to create a country where you can live open, proud, and free \u2014 without fear. #NationalComingOutDay\u201d— Joe Biden (@Joe Biden) 1602432120
Biden has demonstrated a commitment to the LGBTQ+ community throughout the years, and his campaign for president reflects those same values and support. At a virtual appearance at the Human Rights Campaign's United for Equality Live event last month, Biden contrasted his own record and promises to those of President Trump. In the process, he highlighted why he feels he has earned the support of the LGBTQ+ community.
"America's at an inflection point," he warned. "This election is going to determine our future for a very long time."
He went on to say "the White House should never be a source of opposition or fear or oppression," but should instead serve as "a source of hope, of moral courage, and of unification."
Biden further demonstrated his support to the community when he added former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, Pete Buttigieg, to his potential transition team. The former candidate for the Democratic nomination himself joined heavyweights former National Security Advisor Susan Rice and former Assistant Attorney General Sally Yates already on the team.
The efforts of the former vice president contrast with those of President Trump. GLAAD released an ad countering claims by some that Trump is supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. Entitled The Conversation, the commercial highlighted many of the dangers the Trump administration presents to the LGBTQ+ community, including his lack of support for the Equality Act currently stalled in the senate.
Biden's tweet was met with widespread support from the LGBTQ+ community. One follower was filled with pride by the former vice president's message.
Another listed many of the reasons why she felt Biden is the right choice for the country.
\u201c@JoeBiden Joe Biden has a deep & abiding respect for America, for Americans & for all who serve our country with honor. It\u2019s in his DNA. He\u2019s a leader, a statesman, a public servant - a good, decent, honorable man who\u2019ll lead with his values, thoughtful consideration & input from experts.\u201d— Joe Biden (@Joe Biden) 1602432120
The tweet was sent in honor of National Coming Out Day, which has been observed on the anniversary of the 1987 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. It is celebrated every October 11 to provide support to those in the community who wish to live their lives openly and proudly without fear or discrimination.
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