Recently, there has been a new push for what is being called the American Equality Bill, a single bill that would eliminate the 2nd class citizenship of all Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and otherwise marginalized americans. Part of the impetus has been the unacceptably slow progress on bills like the Federal Inclusive ENDA, and lack of progress on ending DADT, but another element pushing this forward, has been the realization, that one of the tactics used to keep the LGBTQ community struggling has been the intentional compartmentalization of our rights across multiple bills and issues. Some are saying, enough is enough.

First, before I piss off anyone, I think this bill (or the idea of the bill) makes total sense. If our ultimate goal is equality, then we need to be talking about equality, and not trying to justify individual rights as if if one without others is enough. A problem for me with the current federal legislative efforts, is the way in which bills and intentions can change at the drop of a hat. ENDA is a good example. Right now it is fully Trans inclusive, but the rumors are that to get it passed, dropping Trans protections could do the trick. From my perspective, this wouldn’t be an option. It must remain Trans inclusive, or it doesn’t accomplish enough. But when bills can change, it is hard to know if you are supporting a bill that you do or do not actually support.

But here’s the part where I will probably piss off someone. With so many bills already in the works and having made some progress, is it really wise to shift gears so dramatically, and try to even get introduced a single bill? Will whatever progress and momentum that has been achieved be lost or will it be there to help move this bill forward? My guess is, that a shift will dissipate any progress we have made, but I’d like to be shown how wrong I am.

An analogy for gaining rights (for me at least) is a game of tug of war. Both parties have an intended goal, to “win.” which is a demarcation in the sand. Winning requires concentration and an ongoing, consistent effort. Sometimes an unexpected event shifts the course of things, but generally speaking, what wins the game is firmly digging in your heels and continue to push (or pull as it may be).

Will we lose the game, by trying to go for a more inclusive prize? What do you think? Leave a comment and share your ideas about the American Equality Bil.