Monday, March 29, 2010

Three things you can do for ENDA today

Congressional leaders said the time to take up the Employment Non-Discrimination Act would be after health care reform passed. Lambda Legal wants the House Representatives to take up ENDA as soon as they return from recess on April 12 and they've come up with a list of three quick and easy things you can do to help.

Check 'em out after the jump.

1. CALL the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121. Give the operator your zip code and ask to be connected to your Representative.

Suggested voicemail message: My name is _______ , and I live at (your street address) in (your city). I am calling about ENDA. My message is simple and direct: we need a House vote on ENDA as soon as possible. Thank you.

2. WRITE your representative (handwritten is best) or send an email.

Suggested email or letter:

In too many states, there are no specific protections to keep employers from firing people because they are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT).

Federal law is inadequate; and the current patchwork of state and local laws is not enough.

LGBT people need to work to live and support their families, just like everyone else. They deserve to be judged on their work performance, and not face discrimination based on who they are.

ENDA can help fix these problems by making it illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Please help by ending the delays and bringing the bill to a vote in the House as soon as possible. This legislation is vital, and is a top priority for me and my family.

3. Visit House members in their district offices.

Get an appointment, drop by their office, and definitely leave a note.