Providing for Consideration of H.R. 3685, Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2007

PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF H.R. 3685, EMPLOYMENT NON-DISCRIMINATION ACT OF 2007 -- (House of Representatives - November 07, 2007)

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Ms. CASTOR. Mr. Speaker, before the House today is the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2007 and the rule for debate. This bipartisan legislation from the people's House, the House of Representatives, marks another important step towards equality for all Americans.

You see, during the 230-plus-year history of our great country, the march toward equality under the law for all citizens has sometimes been slow, but it has been steady.

Over time, this Congress has outlawed discrimination in the workplace based upon a person's race, gender, age, national origin, religion and disability. When it comes to employment and hiring and firing and compensation and promotion, these decisions are rightly based upon a person's qualifications and job performance.

Our bill today will extend civil rights protections to sexual orientation.

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On this proud day of the 110th Congress, we will chart a new direction for civil rights. On this proud day, the Congress will act to ensure that all Americans are granted equal civil rights in the workplace. The underlying value of Americans everywhere is to be treated fairly in our jobs and workplaces.

On this hopeful day for America, we will stand up for citizens who previously lived in fear that they will lose their jobs due to their employers' prejudices.

I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this landmark civil rights act. I urge a ``yes'' vote on the previous question and on the rule.

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