Donate

Menu

Donate
Donate

We build women’s collective power in the U.S.

May 17, 2020

Ms. Foundation on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

Ms. Foundation on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

NEW YORK (May 17, 2020) – Ms. Foundation for Women President and CEO Teresa C. Younger released the following statement in recognition of International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia: 

“The Ms. Foundation for Women is dedicated to fighting for the political, social, and economic equality of all genders, including all members of the LGBTQIA community. Today, on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, that is no exception. 

“As millions in the LGBTQIA community fight to ensure their personal human rights and gain visibility at-large, the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed many further onto the margins by disproportionately stripping members of the LGBTQIA community of necessary benefits and access to critical healthcare.  In addition, many have experienced an increase in violence and a rise in mental health struggles due to separation from community and the inability to gather,  both sources of much-needed resources, support, and stability.  Needless to say, this is a challenge for some and life-threatening for others. 

“Yet even in the midst of this pandemic the current administration continues to move forward with the implementation of their hate-filled policies, including removing explicit protections of discrimination based on sex stereotyping and gender identity in the Affordable Care Act. These plans, especially during a public health crisis, could deter members of the LGBTQIA community from seeking help when needed. All people deserve healthcare from discrimination. 

“The Ms. Foundation for Women not only stands with all members of the LGBTQIA community but commits to continue to support women-led organizations like our grantee-partners, that refuse to allow the criminalization or erasure of LGBTQIA bodies. Our fight will continue to protect all members of our society, and we urge policymakers to protect these communities and ensure an inclusive COVID-19 response – regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity – in order for LGBTQIA people to be included in all health, humanitarian, and economic relief.”

Ms. Foundation spokespeople are available for interviews by phone or video from NYC. To schedule, please contact Sunshine Sachs at [email protected]. 

###

For 45 years, the Ms. Foundation for Women has worked to build women’s collective power in the U.S. to advance equity and justice for all. The Ms. Foundation invests in, and strengthens the capacity of women led movements to advance meaningful social, cultural, and economic change in the lives of women. With equity and inclusion as the cornerstones of true democracy, the Ms. Foundation works to create a world in which the worth and dignity of every person are valued, and power and possibility are not limited by gender, race, class, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or age.