Artists including Machine Gun Kelly, Lorde and Queens of the Stone Age have signed an open letter urging Congress to pass the Equality Act. 

The proposed bill would amend the 1964 Civil Rights Act to protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, education and federally funded programs, among other things.

The letter, which was published in partnership with the Jack Antonoff-co-founded organization The Ally Coalition, declares, “Now more than ever it is vital to stand up for LGBTQ rights.”

“Over 30 states across the country have introduced legislation targeting trans youth, and at least 5 states have signed the legislation into law, taking away access to gender-affirming healthcare and banning them from participating in sports,” the letter reads.

“Transgender and non-conforming young people are already subjected to harassment and bullying, and experience higher rates of family rejection, homelessness and mental health challenges,” it continues. “These discriminatory laws and legislation send a message to trans youth telling them that they are not welcome in their own communities.

The letter concludes, “We believe that the passage of the Equality Act is an essential part in protecting trans youth and all LGBTQ people by providing full protections to the most marginalized communities from discrimination.”

Among the many other signees are Antonoff, Coldplay, Billie Eilish, Imagine Dragons, Paramore, Michael Stipe, The 1975, Tom Morello, Panic! at the Disco, Portugal. the Man, Against Me!‘s Laura Jane Grace, SHAED, St. Vincent, Vampire Weekend, WALK THE MOON, White Reaper and X Ambassadors.

Along with the letter, a livestream event will take place June 24 in further support of the Equality Act.

For more info, visit TheAllyCoalition.org.

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