Massachusetts gov. signs historic trans rights bill
Massachusetts governor Deval Patrick signed a bill Thursday banning a number of types of discrimination against transgender people in the state.
The law includes anti-discrimination measures that protect trans people in “employment, housing, insurance and credit” as well as hate crimes laws. Activists have pointed out that this isn’t the end of the road, though - more work is to be done to protect trans people from discrimination in public places like restaurants and public transit.
“Governor Patrick was a staunch advocate of the Transgender Equal Rights Bill from the earliest days of his administration, and we applaud his unwavering leadership in creating a Commonwealth where all hardworking people, including transgender people, will have the opportunity to make a living, put a roof over their heads, and get an education without fear of being discriminated against simply because of who they are,” said Kara Suffredini, executive director of MassEquality, in a statement.
Absolutely great news out of Massachusetts. Well done.
