In a House hearing on Wednesday, survivors of anti-LGBTQ violence and LGBTQ organizational leaders called for legislative action and highlighted the violent dangers of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric. Some witnesses called for further legislative action on gun control, while many identified the harmful role lawmakers on the local and national level have played in amplifying anti-LGBTQ attitudes through legislation and rhetoric. James Slaugh, a patron of Club Q who was shot in the arm during the gunfire, testified to the connection between anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and hate crimes. In his testimony he said, "Hate starts with speech. The hateful rhetoric you've heard from elected leaders is the direct cause of the horrific shooting at Club Q. We need elected leaders to demonstrate language that reflects love and understanding, not hate and fear." Club Q founding owner Matthew Haynes asked members of Congress to protect LGBTQ rights through legislation and vocal support of the community saying, "We need safe spaces like Club Q more than ever, and we need you, our leaders, to support and protect us. We are being slaughtered and dehumanized across this country and in communities that you took an oath to protect." At least 200 anti-LGBTQ bills have been introduced in state legislatures in 2022, according to data compiled by the American Civil Liberties Union, and a June GLAAD study found 70% of LGBTQ Americans said discrimination toward the community has increased within the last two years.
Club Q Survivors Testify On Anti LGBTQ+ Rhetoric As ‘Hate Starts With Speech’
- Gragg Shapiro
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Pocket
WhatsApp
Flip It 〡and〡 Follow Us
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Pocket
WhatsApp
Never miss any important news. Subscribe to our newsletter.
Related News
2024 Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade Live Broadcast
June 19, 2024
Wilton Manors Lights Up with HOTspots! Art Walk on March 16
March 13, 2024
Never miss any important news. Subscribe to our newsletter.
Recent News
2024 Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade Live Broadcast
June 19, 2024
Wilton Manors Lights Up with HOTspots! Art Walk on March 16
March 13, 2024
Events Near You
Jan 06 2025
Fort Lauderdale HIV+ Gay Discussion Group
ArtServe, 1350 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
No event found!
