Apicha CHC Celebrates Landmark LGBTQ+ Supreme Court Ruling

On Monday, June 15th, 2020, the Supreme Court ruled that LGBTQ+ people are protected from workplace discrimination under the Civil Rights Protection Act of 1965. Apicha Community Health Center (CHC) celebrates this landmark ruling with the LGBTQ+ community. We rejoice that people no longer need to live in fear of losing their jobs because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. As a health center, we have seen often enough how trauma of discrimination presents as a barrier to living healthy, fulfilling lives.

We honor and celebrate the fearless dedication and efforts of Aimee Stevens, Gerald Bostock, and Donald Zarda, their legal team, and allies around the country. All of whom stood up in the face of adversity and intolerance to put to task the judicial system in order to protect civil rights of workers, including the LGBTQ+ community. They serve as a reminder that real change takes tenacity, perseverance, and patience. At Apicha CHC, “lasting change” is a concept we hold near and dear to our hearts. Over the last 30 years, Apicha CHC has remained dedicated to changing the status quo and bettering the lives of those in need.

We know the culture of discrimination in the United States will not change overnight. The Supreme Court win for the LGBTQ+ community reminds us there is still work to be done. We must ensure this ruling is carried out and that everyone is not only protected in the workplace, but also in law enforcement, judicial systems, and in public spaces overall. We know that is currently not the case.

At a time when the Black Lives Matter movement is gaining momentum on its demand for police reform, it is fitting that civil rights protection of LGBTQ+ becomes part of the agenda to ensure this victory becomes meaningful in the years to come. Trans people are still experiencing discrimination, violence, and brutal deaths at alarming rates – with Black trans women often suffering elevated levels of violence. The intersectionality of discrimination is significant to us. We recognize the disparities marginalized communities continue to experience and, by mission, advocate for and provide a welcoming environment for underserved and vulnerable people.

Apicha CHC is proud to continue the fight for a better tomorrow.