Fighting for Fair Treatment

"As a member of Congress who represents one of the most multi-ethnic and diverse districts in the country, I have always been committed to protecting the civil rights of all Americans, and believe everything possible should be done to protect them. I have fought to end discrimination against all groups, and I am fighting for the equal rights and fair treatment of all Americans"

Federal Marriage Amendment

• Vocal opponent of the Federal Marriage Amendment (FMA) and all attempts to write discrimination into the Constitution.


• Member of FMA whip team to defeat this amendment on a member-by-member discussion basis, reaching out to dozens of Congressional colleagues to argue both the facts and the moral arguments against such preposterous legislation.

Ending Discrimination in the Workplace

• Strong supporter of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which would prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.


• Opposed efforts to block implementation of programs to allow domestic partners to participate in employer health plans.


• Supporter of legislation to ensure women and men are paid equal amounts for equal work.

Combating Hate Crimes

• Original co-sponsor of the Hate Crimes Prevention Act (H.R. 2662), which would make it easier for Federal law enforcement officials to investigate and prosecute cases of racial and religious violence.


• Supports expanding the Federal definition of a hate crime to include violence motivated by prejudice against the victimÕs sexual orientation, gender, or disability status.

Protecting the Rights of Americans with Disabilities

• Opposed changes that would undermine the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Proposed a "Bill of Rights" for users of Access-a-Ride, the city's transportation service for the disabled, to ensure a more reliable and accountable system.


• Worked to make the Jackson Heights Post Office more accessible to seniors, disabled and those with baby carriages.