Background:

Al Sharpton is a Civil Rights activist who has been active in voter registration drives and fighting racism. He twice ran unsuccessfully for the New York State Senate.

Employment Non-Discrimination:

Sharpton supports the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.

Gender Identity Employment:

Sharpton supports a federal bill that would outlaw workplace discrimination based on gender identity and expression.

Hate Crimes:

Sharpton supports the inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity in the Federal Hate Crimes Law. Current law includes race, religion and national orientation.

Same-Sex Marriage:

Sharpton supports recognition for same-sex marriage.

Family Medical Leave:

Sharpton supports extending the Family Medical Leave Act to same-sex couples.

Same-Sex Immigration:

Sharpton supports the Permanent Partners Immigration Act (H.R. 832) which would allow American citizens to sponsor their same-sex partners for immigration into the country.

Gay and Lesbian Adoption:

Sharpton giving gays and lesbians the same rights to adopt children as heterosexuals.

Don't Ask, Don't Tell:

Sharpton supports a repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, which would allow gay and lesbian soldiers to serve openly in the military.

Sharpton Comments:
  • On Same-Sex Marriage: "I believe in equal human rights, before the law, for all human beings, and race, gender, disability, class or sexual orientation should not be a factor under the law. Even though we live under the law in a secular democratic society, religious groups must still be able to maintain their spiritual and moral option to either give or withhold a religious or sacred blessing to such unions. However, the government should not have that option. It must affirm the human and legal rights of everyone."


  • On Don't Ask, Don't Tell: "The military code of conduct should allow military people to live openly in the 'truth' rather than live silently or covertly a 'lie'.
  • On Gender Identity and Employment: "No American should be discriminated against on the job because of their gender identity or expression."

    Next Candidate


  • You might also like on "Family & Relationships"

    Leave a reply