MA Governor Patrick protects transgender state employees!

Governor protects transgender state employees! Now it's the state legislature's turn. Ask your state lawmakers to follow Governor Patrick's lead, by passing the Transgender Equal Rights Bill! We're excited to let you know that Governor Patrick has just signed an executive order that prohibits discrimination based on gender identity and expression in state employment! This historic first for Massachusetts is great news, and something that the ACLU and our allies have been working on for a long time--but now we need the State Legislature to follow suit. Ask your state lawmakers to support the Transgender Equal Rights Bill. Unfortunately, this executive order only covers employees of state agencies and contractors. Many transgender residents of the Commonwealth face pervasive discrimination in the workplace and in other aspects of their lives. A study released earlier this month by the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force found that 76 percent of transgender respondents from Massachusetts were harassed or mistreated on the job, and 20 percent reported losing their jobs because they are transgender. No one should have to live in fear that they can be legally fired for reasons that have nothing to do with their job performance. All hardworking people in our state, including transgender people, should have the opportunity to make a living and provide for themselves and their families. This executive order is a good first step toward that goal. But it's up to lawmakers to do the rest. Please ask them now to pass the Transgender Equal Rights Bill. The ACLU of Massachusetts Legislative Team

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