Reps. Frank, Miller and Polis to Introduce ENDA on Wednesday

By Chris Geidner -

As reported on Monday, March 28, by Metro Weekly, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act will be introduced in the House on Wednesday, March 30.

The release from the office of Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA):

BARNEY FRANK AND COLLEAGUES TO HOLD PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE EMPLOYMENT NON-DISCRIMATION ACT (ENDA)

WASHINGTON -- On Wednesday morning, March 30th, Congressman Barney Frank and other prominent Members of the House of Representatives will make an important announcement about the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.

The legislation would extend federal employment laws, which currently prevent job discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, national origin, age, and disability, to also cover sexual orientation and gender identity.  The bill applies both to the public and private sectors.

On the night before the event, Frank said that “passing an inclusive ENDA is a difficult but winnable fight – winnable if supported by a serious lobbying effort.  The bill we are about to introduce provides an important vehicle for that effort.”

Although some states have passed laws to prevent such discrimination, it is legal in 29 states to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation, and legal in 38 states to discriminate on the basis of gender identity.  According to research by the Williams Institute, there is an ongoing pattern of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity nationwide.

WHERE:  Room 2220, Rayburn House Office Building
WHEN:   Wednesday, March 30, 2011, 9:15 AM
WHO:    Rep. Barney Frank, joined by Rep. George Miller, Rep. Jared Polis and other cosponsors of the legislation.  Also present will be representatives of leading LGBT equality, civil rights and social justice organizations.

When speaking with Metro Weekly on Sunday, March 27 -- and contrary to today's optimistic outlook in the release -- Frank said, "It's an organizing tool. Obviously, with the Republicans in power, you're not going to get the bill even considered."

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