Op-Ed: We Need Liberty, Justice, And Progress For All

Social progress is often measured by looking at our laws, but I believe social progress can also be measured on the playground. I’ve spent a lot of time watching my children interact with friends and strangers at the park, and I have to be honest: When it comes to progress, I think the kids are doing a better job than the grownups. My twins don’t think twice about the fact that their friends have two moms or dads. When they’re approached by a gender non-conforming child or Mommy’s transgender friends, they don’t bat an eye. My kids know that every person should have the freedom to be their authentic selves, and I can’t comprehend how my kindergarteners understand the fundamental importance of LGBTQ rights better than some of our lawmakers do.

Some people believe that the fight for LGBTQ justice ended with the legalization of gay marriage. That our society now fully embraces the LGBTQ community and that the law treats everyone equally. In reality, our LGBTQ siblings are still fighting grueling battles in their public and private lives . Domestic violence and workplace discrimination are serious issues for many folks. LGBTQ youth -- one of our most vulnerable groups -- can still be subjected to abusive “conversion therapy” in Massachusetts. This fall, voters will decide whether to roll back legislation that protects transgender people from discrimination in public spaces.

I believe in the power -- and potential -- of good governance. Whether it’s providing access to healthcare or enshrining civil liberties, the government has a responsibility to protect its most vulnerable and marginalized populations, especially when society doesn’t.

Our State House has the power -- and responsibility -- to protect the LGBTQ community in Massachusetts. Our leaders should immediately pass the Healthy Youth Act, a bill which ensures that sexual education is LGBTQ-inclusive and creates the space to talk about sexual and gender identity. They should prohibit conversion therapy from being practiced on minors and require LGBTQ awareness training for aging services providers. The legislature should also work to broaden access to healthcare for LGBTQ folks. As a State Senator, I will fight for hormone treatment to be covered in all health insurance plans and push for health care providers to use modern, supportive therapy methods for LGBTQ patients during transition. As a citizen, I will vote “yes” on the November ballot question and support the law that protects our trans neighbors’ dignity and access to public accommodations.

I am angry and heartbroken that we’re still combating oppression based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in Massachusetts. We shouldn’t have to defend basic human rights in 2018, but since we obviously have to, I’m ready to stand alongside members of the LGBTQ community and fight like hell for their health, safety, dignity, and freedom.