[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 125 (Thursday, July 20, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H3863]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





      LIBERTY, JUSTICE, AND EQUAL PROTECTION UNDER THE LAW FOR ALL

  (Ms. STRICKLAND asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Ms. STRICKLAND. Mr. Speaker, House Republicans have made it clear 
that they do not support liberty, justice, and equal protection under 
the law for all.
  Last week, the majority passed an extremist defense bill that bans 
gender-affirming and reproductive care for servicemembers, guts support 
for our servicemembers of color, and prohibits Pride flags from being 
displayed in any workspace, common access area, or public area of the 
Department of Defense.
  However, they decided that the homophobia and discrimination can't 
stop there.
  This week, Republicans voted to strip critical funding to enhance 
career development opportunities, provide meals to low-income seniors, 
create affordable and transitional housing units for vulnerable 
populations in need, and more.
  These projects, led by Representatives Boyle, Pressley, and Houlahan, 
were vetted months ago to ensure they meet the rigorous community 
project funding guidelines and are responsible uses of taxpayer 
dollars.
  So why were these projects denied? Because recipients had LGBTQ in 
their name, and they served communities that the other side demonizes 
daily. It is hypocritical, it is homophobic, and it damages the idea of 
liberty and justice for all.

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