The 7th District’s greatest strength is its diversity – social, economic and cultural.  In order to protect and preserve each of our unique backgrounds and beliefs, leaders must actively respect and protect the civil rights of all members of the community.

The 7th District and the nation undoubtedly will benefit from the protection of civil rights for all individuals, including those in the LGBT community.  The Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act and the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2009 are worthy first steps in ensuring equality under the law.  But we must go further in guaranteeing civil rights by ending the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell policy and repealing the Defense of Marriage Act.

The diversity of our district is also reflected in economics.  We must strive to provide the same economic opportunities to residents in the Loop and the West Side.  In conjunction with high level education and health care reforms, tangible benefits to individual families in the district must be pursued with changes to street level programs such as acceleration of Section 8 housing construction and access to low cost legal aid.

Finally, we must also protect the rights of our largest constituency – women.  I praise the current administration on the passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act that will help ensure equal pay for equal work.  Still, we lag behind other modern economies when it comes to respecting and ensuring proper maternity and family leave in the workplace.  Additionally, I plan to help Congress pass further protections for victims of domestic violence and protect women’s absolute right to privacy and reproductive freedom.

On a personal note, as a part of the great American immigrant heritage, I recognize that the incredible diversity of our district reflects that of the country as a whole.  I pledge to protect the rights of each individual who helps make our district as vibrant and strong as any other in the nation.