Apr 22, 2015

Burr, Tillis Vote To Allow Discrimination Against LGBT Youth

Richard Burr, Thom Tillis Vote Against Amendment To Protect LGBT Homeless And Runaway Youth From Discrimination

Washington, D.C. -- As the U.S. Senate considered amendments today on the anti-human trafficking bill, Senators Richard Burr and Thom Tillis voted in favor of allowing discrimination against homeless and runaway youth who identify as LGBT.

The amendment would improve and reauthorize programs in local communities for grant money, residential services, education and crisis intervention for homeless and runaway youth, and it would prohibit any recipients from discriminating against any youth in need based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Roughly 40% of homeless youth identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT).

“With such a large number of homeless youth identifying as LGBT, it is unconscionable that Senators Burr and Tillis would sanction discrimination against the nation's youngest and most vulnerable citizens,” said Chris Sgro, executive director of Equality NC. “With their votes today, both U.S. Senators from North Carolina have sent the strong and callous message that they are unwilling to stand up for and protect all children when they need it the most.”