USW slams Trump administration decision to cut LGBTQ+ health care protections

Contact: Amanda Green, agreen@usw.org

(PITTSBURGH) — United Steelworkers (USW) Vice President Fred Redmond and the USW Civil and Human Rights Department released the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s gutting of LGBTQ+ health care protections:

“The Trump administration’s decision to remove nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people in health care and health insurance is yet another example of its disregard for human life and dignity. 

“This decision will particularly impact trans people. It is particularly devastating now as so many LGBTQ+ people struggle in the wake of the pandemic and the ensuing economic downturn.

“No one should be denied health care coverage or access to medical services simply because of their gender identity. That is not the America we believe in, and it is not the America we will settle for.

“Our union will continue fighting for trans-inclusive contracts at the bargaining table, and we once again call upon the Senate to take up and pass the Equality Act, which is needed now more than ever. 

“Too many lives depend upon those in government and other leadership positions to recognize their value—we all must do everything in our power to change that, and to ensure swift justice for Americans who just want to exercise their right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

The USW represents 850,000 working people employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in public sector and service occupations.

 

 

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