Pope at White House urges action on climate change, promotes religious liberty

Pope at White House urges action on climate change, promotes religious liberty

Following a solemn but energetic ceremony before thousands gathered on the White House South Lawn, Pope Francis spoke briefly in English, emphasizing the need to focus on climate change and promoting religious freedom.

On environmental issues, referring to his recent encyclical on climate change, the pope lauded President Barack Obama for fighting air pollution and urged him to continue those efforts.

Transgender activists rally in support of so-called ‘bathroom bill’
bathroom bill

Transgender activists rally in support of so-called ‘bathroom bill’

Kara Bettis

BOSTON –Scores of transgender activists flooded the State House Thursday for a rally in support of pending legislation that promises to expand the state's anti-discrimination law to add protections for transgender people in places of "public accommodation."

Supporters of the measure, sponsored by Rep. Byron Rushing (D-Boston) and Rep. Denise Provost (D-Somerville), say the bill (H 1577, S 735) will protect transgender people from discrimination in public places such as movie theaters and restaurants.

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