Issues

Civil Rights

Share This

Democrats have a long and proud history of defending Civil Rights and expanding opportunity for all Americans. From the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act in 2009, Democrats have fought to end discrimination in all forms—including discrimination based on race, sex, ethnicity or national origin, language, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or disability.

For too many though, this ideal is still far from a reality. That’s why in our fight to stand up for civil rights for all Americans, we are committed to protecting voting rights, enacting the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, ensuring civil unions and equal federal rights for LGBT couples and fully repealing the Defense of Marriage Act.

Recent Updates
  • People’s rights, not politics

    As Democrats, our agenda is full equality under the law for every American.

    Last night, I attended the DNC's annual LGBT Leadership Gala — and wow was it a great night!

    Not only did we have our fabulous First Lady, Jason Collins, Sara Bareilles, and Andy Cohen in attendance, we had hundreds of Democrats fired up and ready to fight for equality.

    There is no gay agenda or straight agenda. As Democrats, our only agenda is full equality under the law for every American. Because this issue isn't about politics, it’s about people's rights.

    For so many Americans, when the President signed the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, it was personal. When he put in place hospital visitation rights for LGBT couples, it meant the world to some couples. When his administration established and developed the first comprehensive National HIV/AIDS Strategy, it was life-changing. And when his administration filed a brief with the Supreme Court urging them to strike down Proposition 8, he sent the message that we as Americans will not tolerate inequality.

    Of course there is more to do. But by coming together at events like last night's and supporting the President and Democrats in Congress, we can do it.

    It is an undeniable fact that after years of dogged determination by LGBT leaders, activists and grassroots supporters, the tide is turning in our favor. But we can’t turn back for a second.

    We need to support candidates who are working toward real equality.

    Please join us and fight for equal rights for every American.

    Fight for equality

  • More anti-women, anti-gay GOP candidates

    While the Republicans continue to talk about a rebrand, here's who they chose for the Governor's race in Virginia. These guys make Todd Akin look liberal. Watch the video to learn more about their warped policies and then donate so we have the resources to defeat them and their extreme agenda.

    While the Republicans continue to talk about a rebrand, here's who they chose for the Governor's race in Virginia. These guys make Todd Akin look liberal. Watch the video to learn more about their warped policies and then donate so we have the resources to defeat them and their extreme agenda.

    Donate

  • We Must Rededicate Ourselves to the Fight for Equality for Women

    In November, women overwhelmingly supported President Obama—and that’s because we knew as women that President Barack Obama has and always will fight for us. This is why on National Equal Pay Day, alongside President Obama, we must rededicate ourselves to the fight for equality and understand that our work is far from finished. Because these issues are not just women’s issues; they are issues for all of our families.

    Read More
  • Cesar Chavez Day

    ''On this day I join millions of Americans to honor the birthday and legacy of Cesar Chavez. Chavez believed deeply that every individual deserves respect and dignity, that an honest day's work is worth a decent wage, and that the collective power of individuals can bring about real change in our society. Embodying these ideals we as a nation hold dear, Chavez has inspired so many to stand up for their basic rights.''

    Read More
  • LOAD MORE
Recent Action
Martin Luther King Memorial dedication
October 16, 2011
President Obama addressed an overflowing crowd gathered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, October 16th for the dedication of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Reflecting on the progress our nation has made since the March on Washington—while addressing the work still ahead.
Protecting against racial profiling
The Obama administration filed a lawsuit to prevent an extreme and potentially unconstitutional immigration law from taking effect in Arizona.
Strengthening our commitment to freedom of the press
Democrats passed the Daniel Pearl Freedom of the Press Act, reinforcing America’s commitment to freedom of the press around the world by directing the State Department to report countries that violate that freedom.
Milestones