think-progress

Despite widespread belief to the contrary, no federal law explicitly protects LGBT people from discrimination. Thursday marks the introduction of The Equality Act, a comprehensive bill that would, if passed, add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” to the protections that already exist based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. But it also would do more than that.

The legislation, introduced by Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI) and Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) is an update to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that increases its protections for many Americans beyond the LGBT community as well. Here’s a look at how The Equality Act earns its name:

LGBT People couldn’t be fired, evicted, or denied service for who they are