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Non-Discrimination

Abstract: HR 2015 would prohibit employment discrimination based on sexual preference and gender identity. Does the ELCA support it?

Introduced in April, 2007, the federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) is making its way through the legislative process. It is currently in the House of Representatives as HR 2015, and will be introduced in the Senate later in September. The bill prohibits hiring, firing, promoting or paying employees based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Currently, only 19 states and the District of Columbia have laws against employment discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Employment rights for transgendered people are protected in only 11 states and the District of Columbia.
You can voice your support for this legislation by contacting your congresssional representatives and perhaps encourage the bishop of your synod to take a stand as well.
The ELCA might have endorsed this legislation, but you'd have a hard time finding that out.
In 2004, the ELCA Church Council approved Freed in Christ: Nondiscrimination in Business Activities, an issue paper on business practices that addresses some aspects of employment discrimination but is silent on discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
When the Church Council meets again November 9-11, perhaps it can consider updating the ELCA's 2004 Non-discrimination statement.

(Vol. I, xlv September 21, 2007 )

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