“Rep. Honda is not only a supporter of LGBT equality, he is a champion in the fight,” said Ana Ma, HRC Chief Operating Officer. “Mike publicly supported equality when it wasn’t a politically safe thing to do.  For that, he has our gratitude and support.”

"As someone whose family was interned during WWII because of our Japanese-American heritage, I know what it’s like to face unfair discrimination and bullying because of my identity,” said Rep. Mike Honda.  “HRC's endorsement means a lot to me because I know how much work they have done to create a world in which we have full equality for all members of the LGBT community.  As a proud ally, I will be with them every step of the way until we do."

Honda is a strong supporter of LGBT equality, including marriage equality. He supports the Respect for Marriage Act (RMA) which would repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in its entirety.  He is a co-sponsor of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA).  Prior to his service in Congress, Honda had an exceptional record in the California state Assembly.  He has publicly supported marriage equality since at least 2000, when only a handful of public officials did so. 

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.