[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 94 (Monday, June 3, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E577]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF GARDEN STATE EQUALITY

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                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 3, 2024

  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 20th 
anniversary of Garden State Equality. Since its inception, Garden State 
Equality has provided support and advocacy to LGBTQ+ communities across 
New Jersey and its work is truly deserving of this body's recognition.
  Organized in 2004 with the mission to institute marriage equality in 
New Jersey, Garden State Equality has not only succeeded in that goal 
but has continued to champion equal rights and protections for LGBTQ+ 
individuals. Throughout its 20-year history, Garden State Equality has 
seen major accomplishments in New Jersey, including the Anti-Bullying 
Bill of Rights, LGBTQ Older Adults Bill of Rights, Transgender Equality 
Taskforce, gender identity recognition, and LGBTQ-inclusive school 
curriculum. It is a leading voice on LGBTQ+ issues and priorities and 
is an effective advocate on behalf of New Jersey's activist community.
  In addition to its advocacy, Garden State Equality's training and 
education programs are invaluable resources to the community, 
cultivating a more inclusive environment through better understanding 
of the issues and needs the LGBTQ+ community faces. It also provides 
resources and assistance to LGBTQ+ individuals--identifying LGBTQ-
friendly healthcare providers, providing legal name and gender change 
instruction, and explaining LGBTQ+ rights and protections, among 
others.
  Founded by Steven Goldstein, today Garden State Equality is led by 
Executive Director Christian Fuscarino. Its success, outreach, and 
relevancy are evident in its growth as the largest LGBTQ+ advocacy 
organization in New Jersey with over 150,000 members.
  Mr. Speaker, on its 20th anniversary, it is my honor and privilege to 
recognize the outstanding efforts and dedication of Garden State 
Equality on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community.

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