Hillary Clinton has raised her concern about how the Trump administration will protect LGBT rights saying the current US President can not be relied upon.
Clinton was speaking at the New York Gay and Lesbian Center where she was presented with a ‘Trailblazer Award’.
Accepting the award Clinton praised the work of LGBT support services like New York’s respected Gay and Lesbian Center saying that they were needed now more than ever.
“The progress that we’ve fought for, that many of you were on the front lines of, and that we’ve celebrated and maybe even taken for granted, may not be as secure as we once expected.” Clinton said.
“When this administration rescinded protections for transgender students, my heart broke for all the parents who are advocating so fiercely for their child’s right to live, learn and go to school, just like anybody else.
“When I learned about the proposed cuts in funding for HIV and AIDS research, I thought of all of our efforts to try and achieve an AIDS-free generation, and we were on the way.
Clinton said many of the changes being brought in by the Trump government might seem small but they were beginning to add up. The former Secretary of State said each time the Trump administration elevated a person opposed to LGBT rights it had an effect on LGBT people.
Referring to the situation in Chechnya, Secretary Clinton said the US government could do more.
“The United states government, yes this government, should demand an end to the persecution of innocent people across the world.” Clinton said.
“We might never be able to count on this administration to lead on LGBT issues.” Clinton said.
Clinton said LGBT activists needed to remain vigilant and look to the future.
Watch the entire speech bellow.