The bishops of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, the Rt. Rev. Alan M. Gates and the Rt. Rev. Gayle E. Harris, issued the following statement in response to the transgender rights bill enacted by the Massachusetts State Legislature on July 7:
We rejoice at today's news that our Massachusetts House and Senate have voted to secure public accommodations protections for transgender people statewide. We have every hope that Governor Charlie Baker will sign the bill. This new legislation ensures equal access for transgender people to public spaces, such as restaurants, parks, libraries and public restroom facilities. It has been a long time coming. We offer our gratitude for the voices of those who have been consistent and tireless advocates on this issue. We pray that today's accomplishment here might be an inspiration to those who continue in the struggle for equality in places where such protections have yet to be won.