Employment discrimination is the lgbt issue that affects the broadest spectrum of the queer community and the largest number of people. There are a lot of important queer issues, but we can't take our eyes off the most important one: the Employment Non Discrimination Act (ENDA). In most states, it still is legal to fire people for being queer. Given that many people in states where they have protections may need to move elsewhere because of the terrible economy, this is an issue that effects all of us, regardless of what state we live in.

Also, given the heterosexism and dishonesty of Republican Governors and most Republican appointed judges, we cannot rely on states alone to protect our rights even when they are written into state laws. Layers of civil rights protection is an important concept for every oppressed group.

From the National Center for Lesbian Rights' 8/5/09 Action Alert:

This bill, which would extend existing federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination to protect people on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, is much needed and long overdue.

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We have a good chance of passing this bill, but we need your help! President Obama has said that he is ready to sign this bill. All we need now is for the Senate to act.

It is essential that you contact your Senators and urge them to support ENDA and ask them to become a co-sponsor. Becoming a co-sponsor shows other members of Congress that your Senator will stand in solidarity with our community, which helps build momentum for the bill’s passage.

Take Action Now! Email your Senators the message below and ask them to co-sponsor ENDA! Email your Senators now!

Passage of employment discrimination is at least 30 years overdue. The Democrats owe us ENDA big time. If they have brains in their heads, they won't betray us again.

Please Email Your Senators Now!

(I would suggest rewriting the default text, which is a good practice in general. Personally, I think pointing out how important the bill is to you would be a very good idea.)

It is important to point out that ENDA needs to include gender identity as well as sexual orientation. This is a simple matter of justice for our transgender brothers and sisters. It also closes a loophole that sleazy corporate lawyers can use to try to defeat sexual orientation discrimination cases.

Photo: ntr23