In recognition of National Coming Out Day, DNC Chair Tom Perez and DNC LGBT Caucus Chair Earl Fowlkes released this statement:

“Today, on National Coming Out Day, we celebrate the fact that love is love and are resolute in our belief that all people deserve to be treated with dignity. We remember a time not long ago when living openly as a member of the LGBTQ community was nearly impossible. And we honor those who have fought and struggled to advance the cause of true equality. Even more importantly, we welcome and embrace those who are openly LGBTQ, those who choose to come out today, and those who are still unable to live openly.

“Unfortunately, this year’s celebration is clouded by a presidency that is openly hostile to LGBTQ people. Donald Trump, Mike Pence, and their administration began attacking the LGBTQ community on their first day in office. They retracted the Department of Education’s guidance on transgender students, abandoned America’s global leadership role on LGBTQ rights, proposed cuts to HIV/AIDS testing and care, and just last week reinterpreted the law to give businesses a license to discriminate.

“Democrats are committed to fighting this administration’s anti-LGBTQ actions tooth and nail. We will redouble our efforts to protect the progress we’ve made. And we wish all Americans a happy Coming Out Day.”