Ellen DeGeneres Speaks Out Against Mississippi’s ‘Religious Freedom’ Law
Gov. Phil Bryant of Mississippi recently signed into law state bill HB 1523, which allows religious organizations and private business to refuse services to people on the grounds that it would violate their religious beliefs. Ellen DeGeneres used her opening monologue to address Mississippi’s new law — one that, in general, targets members of the LGBT community. “That is the definition of discrimination,” said DeGeneres. “It is also something that the Supreme Court already ruled on when they made marriage a right for everyone. Everyone.”
Under the Protecting Freedom of Conscience from Government Discrimination Act, gay and transexual individuals can be denied housing and even fired. These steps backwards for equal rights strike a chord with DeGeneres, who has dealt with her fair share of discrimination in the past for her sexual orientation. “So if you’re in Mississippi or North Carolina or anywhere, and are saddened by the fact that people are judging you based on who you love, don’t lose hope,” pleaded DeGeneres. “I was fired for being gay and I know what it feels like. I lost everything, but look at me now.”
Watch: Hillary Clinton on Possible Trump Presidency: “Let’s Make Sure That Doesn’t Happen”
Tell us what you think. Hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, or leave your comments below.
