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In a groundbreaking move, the South Carolina Civil Rights Act was amended today to include protections for the LGBTQ+ community. The amendment, which was signed into law by Governor James Thompson, marks a significant step forward in the fight for equality and non-discrimination in the state.The amendment to the Civil Rights Act adds sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of protected characteristics, alongside race, sex, age, and disability. This means that LGBTQ+ individuals in South Carolina will now be legally protected from discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and public accommodations.Advocates and lawmakers alike have hailed the amendment as a long-overdue victory for civil rights in South Carolina. State Senator Maria Rodriguez, who co-sponsored the amendment, commented, "This amendment sends a clear message that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, deserve equal treatment under the law. No one should be denied basic rights and opportunities because of who they are or who they love."The amendment comes after years of advocacy and lobbying efforts by LGBTQ+ rights organizations and allies in the state. The South Carolina Equality Coalition, one of the leading advocacy groups, issued a statement praising the amendment as a "historic step towards achieving full equality for all South Carolinians."Despite the progress made with the amendment, advocates caution that there is still work to be done to ensure full equality for LGBTQ+ individuals in South Carolina. Issues such as hate crimes, conversion therapy, and healthcare access remain ongoing concerns for the community.In a press conference following the signing of the amendment, Governor Thompson acknowledged the importance of the legislation but stressed the need for continued efforts to combat discrimination. "Today is a milestone for civil rights in South Carolina, but our work is far from over. We must remain vigilant in our fight for equality and justice for all," he stated.The amendment to the South Carolina Civil Rights Act will go into effect immediately, providing much-needed protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in the state. With this historic move, South Carolina joins a growing number of states across the country in extending legal protections to the LGBTQ+ community, signaling a shift towards a more inclusive and equitable society.