* FINAL VERSION - Concurred
Resolution:C048
Title:Support for Employment Non-discrimination Act
Topic:Discrimination
Committee:09 - National and International Concerns
House of Initial Action:Deputies
Proposer:Diocese of Michigan

Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, that the 76th General Convention of The Episcopal Church support the extension of existing federal laws that prohibit employment discrimination to include discrimination because of sexual orientation or gender identity and expression along with those prohibitions based on race, gender, religion, national origin, age, and disability; and be it further

Resolved, that the Secretary of General Convention convey this resolution to appropriate congressional leaders and to the President of the United States.


EXPLANATION

Transgender, bisexual, lesbian and gay persons are at risk of discrimination and harassment in every area of life and in particular in seeking and maintaining employment.

In most states, transgender, bisexual, lesbian, and gay employees are not protected by state statute from discrimination in employment.

Transgender children and youth are often rejected by their families, and thereby find themselves homeless and without economic support. Young and adult transsexual male-to-female individuals experience pervasive discrimination in employment. Many are reduced to turning to sex work for economic survival. They consequently are at risk for infectious disease, substance abuse, and assault up to and including murder.

The passage of ENDA is appropriate in light of the US Constitution's guarantees of equal protection and due process to all.

"We pray and work for the guidance of the people of this land, and of all the nations, in the ways of justice and peace; that we may honor one another and serve the common good." (BCP, p. 388)



* Note: The final language, as well as the final status of each resolution, is being reviewed by the General Convention office. The Journal of the 76th General Convention and the Constitution and Canons will be published once the review process has been completed.