In Support of an Act Relative to Gender-based Discrimination and Hate Crimes

Human Rights/Executive Unit
Sign on in support of an Act Relative to Gender-based Discrimination and Hate Crimes. Also to show the state legislature that as an institution with a proven commitment to diversity, the UUSC supports transgender equality.

Passing of An Act Relative to Gender-based Discrimination and Hate Crimes would:

a. Amend both non-discrimination laws and hate crime laws
b. Add the category of gender identity and expression to the list of protections provided by state law.

Purpose
The purpose of this action is to push for the passing of An Act Relative to Gender-based Discrimination and Hate Crimes. Transgender people in Massachusetts face high levels of discrimination and violence because of widespread prejudice and the assumption that transgender people are "outside" of the law's protections. There's already similar legislation on the books in 13 states, Washington D.C. and over 100 other municipalities, including Boston, Cambridge, Northampton, and Amherst.