U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai has underscored the Biden-Harris administration’s pledge to support the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex people during Pride Month.
Tai said more work is needed to eradicate prejudice, bigotry and violence against LGBTQI+ people, according to a June 1 news release.
“Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate the LGBTQI+ community and re-commit to the fight for the rights and dignity for all,” Tai said in the release. "Our nation’s promise is that all are created equal, endowed with certain unalienable rights. We have not always lived up to this promise and have more work to do to eradicate the prejudice, bigotry and violence against our fellow citizens."
She noted the Biden-Harris administration made “historic progress” toward equality, in part by prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in the federal workforce, the release reported. They are also focused on safeguarding Americans' privacy and sensitive data from illegal exploitation.
Tai said the department is committed to studying how trade policy affects all individuals, including historically marginalized communities, to promote inclusive economic prosperity, according to the release. They are actively supporting efforts to enhance the availability and quality of data on sexual orientation and gender identity to ensure LGBTQI+ workers, consumers and entrepreneurs benefit from positive trade policies.
“As we celebrate Pride Month, our administration pledges to be an active ally in championing the rights of LGBTQI+ people in the United States and around the world,” Tai said in the release. “This work demands persistent action from all of us to create a world where love knows no boundaries and people can live freely without fear. We will continue this journey until all stand on equal footing.”
She noted this effort "requires a whole-of-government approach to drive lasting change" and make a change in the lives of Americans, according tot he release.
