A Statement from Co-Founders Justin Nelson and Chance Mitchell
The National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) is outraged by the Tennessee legislature and the advancement of The Equal Access to Intrastate Commerce Act (SB 0632/HB0600). By revoking the City of Nashville’s anti-gay bias ordinance, the legislature has openly embraced discrimination and sent a terrible message to Tennessee’s LGBT workers, businesses, and families.
The NGLCC demands a veto from Governor Bill Haslam. In what can only be called a knee-jerk reaction, the Tennessee legislature began this legislative process only after Metro Nashville extended bias protection based on sexual orientation on April 5. Instead of signing this bill into law, Governor Bill Haslam should work with fair-minded business leaders to find a solution to implement statewide anti-discrimination protections for the entire LGBT community.
No one should be judged by his or her sexual orientation or gender identity in the workplace. In this delicate economic climate, diminishing the rights of LGBT people sends the wrong signal across Tennessee and around the country. The NGLCC stands in solidarity with the fair-minded policymakers, businesses, and citizens who are calling for a firm rejection of this legislation.
CONTACT:
Laura Berry, communications director, at 1-202-234-9181 or lberry@nglcc.org
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About the NGLCC
The National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) is the only national not-for-profit advocacy organization dedicated to expanding the economic opportunities and advancements of the LGBT business community. With more than 29,000 members, 130 corporate partners and 62 local, state and international affiliate chambers, NGLCC is the largest LGBT business development and economic advocacy organization in the world.
