News & Updates

SIECUS applauds intro of Do No Harm Act

For Immediate Release
May 18, 2016

Contact: Kristina Romines
Phone: (202) 265-2405 ext 333
kromines@siecus.org

New legislation: religious freedom should not undermine the health and well-being of others

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Reps. Joe Kennedy and Bobby Scott introduced the Do No Harm Act. The legislation seeks to protect and defend religious freedom, while ensuring that no one is granted a legal accommodation to practice their faith in a way that infringes upon the rights of others. The Do No Harm Act restores the original intent of the federal Religious Freedom Restoration Act by amending it to create exemptions with regard to non-discrimination, equal employment, child labor and abuse, health care, federal contracts and grants and equal enjoyment of government services.

“We all have the right to live free from discrimination no matter our sexuality and sexual health needs. This important legislation will ensure that existing rights will not be infringed upon due to others’ religious beliefs,” said SIECUS President and CEO Chitra Panjabi. “The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States thanks Rep. Kennedy and Rep. Scott for their leadership in introducing the Do No Harm Act.”

SIECUS joins more than 40 other faith, labor, reproductive health, civil rights and LGBTQ organizations in endorsing this legislation.

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SIECUS affirms that sexuality is a fundamental part of being human, one that is worthy of dignity and respect. We advocate for the right of all people to accurate information, comprehensive education about sexuality, and sexual health services. SIECUS works to create a world that ensures social justice and sexual rights.

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