Tag: Civil Rights

Merkley Statement on 20th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley released the following statement recognizing the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) this week: “Twenty years ago, our nation took a stand for opportunity and inclusion by passing the Americans with Disabilities Act.  Before that time, millions of Americans living

Senators Introduce Repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A coalition of United States Senators today introduced legislation to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and enhance our country’s military effectiveness.  The Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2010 contains three main provisions: it will repeal the law that prevents gay Americans from openly serving in the military,

Merkley Joins Effort to Protect Civil Liberties

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley co-sponsored legislation today to repeal the retroactive immunity provision in the FISA Amendments Act.  The Retroactive Immunity Repeal Act, introduced by Banking Committee Chairman Chris Dodd (D-CT), would repeal a provision that shields telecommunications companies from legal repercussions if they violate the law.

Protecting Communities From Violent Crimes Motivated By Prejudice

Mr. Merkley Friends and colleagues, I rise today because of a document that our forefathers signed 233 years ago, the Declaration of Independence.  Specifically, the Declaration stated, “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal.  They’re endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights that

Merkley: Senate Bill Promotes Equality for Federal Employees

Washington DC – Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley today co-sponsored legislation that entitles all federal employees, no matter their sexual orientation, to the same employment and health care benefits as married couples.  “It is plain wrong that some federal employees are not currently entitled to equal health and employment benefits,” said

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