Indiana Transgender Rights Advocacy Alliance (INTRAA)

Historic Trans-Inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act Introduced in U.S. House

Wednesday, 06. 24. 2009  –  Section: TransNews

WASHINGTON, June 24 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund applauds today’s introduction of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which would protect against workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The measure was introduced by Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.).

The Task Force was the first national organization to advocate for federal nondiscrimination protections when it worked with then-U.S. Reps. Bella Abzug and Ed Koch to introduce a sweeping bill in 1974. The Task Force has also played a leading role in ensuring ENDA is explicitly inclusive of transgender people. The Task Force vowed a decade ago to oppose the legislation if it did not include protections based on gender identity. Learn more about the Task Force’s long history working on this issue.

Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund

“Today marks a critical milestone for our community and our country. Introduction of this important legislation signals the beginning of the end of a long-fought battle. For decades, a majority of people in this country have supported protecting their friends, family and neighbors from discrimination. Congress must act, at long last, this year.

“Passage of this critical legislation would help ensure that people are allowed to participate on a level-playing field in the workplace. ENDA reflects our country’s core values of fairness and equality. It is immoral to deny lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people the ability to earn a livelihood and provide for their families. People should not have to fear losing their job simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

“We are pleased that President Obama has expressed support for this legislation and expect the administration to play a role in assisting with its passage in both the House and Senate.”

Tags: barney frank, employment, enda, rea carey, the task force