Articles in News
Override Deadline & Support for ENDA
from Equality Works:
Thanks to all of you who called and e-mailed Debbie Ossiander encouraging her to help override the Mayor’s veto of AO 64. Many of you have forwarded your letters to us and we have been impressed by your passion and commitment to this cause. We believe that Assemblywoman Ossiander’s concerns with AO 64 are matters that could easily be addressed by overriding the veto and offering up amendments to Title V. Unfortunately, she has not responded to attempts to work with her productively to craft the best and most inclusive nondiscrimination law possible.
The deadline for overriding a veto runs out this coming Monday, September 7th, and while we are still willing to work with Assembly members to achieve an override, we have also begun to look ahead at other ways in which we can work with members of the LGBT community and our allies to ensure that Anchorage becomes a city that protects all of its citizens from discrimination, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity.
In the short run, one way that you can help us achieve our goal is to contact Senators Begich and Murkowski and encourage them to become co-sponsors of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). If passed, ENDA would make employment discrimination a violation of federal law. While it is not as expansive as our local laws—it would not protect people from discrimination in housing and public accommodations, for example—it would nonetheless be a huge step forward in our goal of achieving equality for all in Anchorage. While we would have preferred for such a law to be passed on a local level, we are willing to use every tool available to us. As we said months ago, our opponents may have prepared for a sprint, but we are prepared to go the distance and hope that you are too.
Contact Senator Mark Begich and Senator Lisa Murkowski through the online contact forms linked to their names.
Anchorage Mayor’s No-Gays-Need-Apply Diversity Month
September is Mayor Sullivan’s Hypocrisy… er, Diversity Month, celebrating the diverse cultures of Anchorage just two weeks after he vetoed the equal rights ordinance.
“Mayor’s Diversity Month is an opportunity for the city to partner with the community to showcase diversity efforts,” said the mayor.
On August 17, Sullivan showcased his diversity efforts by vetoing Ordinance 64, a measure passed by the Assembly to add sexual orientation to the city’s anti-discrimination policies. The mayor’s veto statement – listed on the same City of Anchorage web page as the Diversity Month announcement – cites “the absence of compelling data” and “the will of the community” as the reasons for his veto, despite the weeks of sometimes emotional testimony on the need for protections.
The Mayor’s Diversity Month is made up of events and programs that “encourage dialogue, partnerships and respect for Anchorage’s diverse population.” The community is invited to participate in the events, which this year recognize seniors, youth, Latinos, Blacks, military women, Hawaiians, and the disabled. There are no LGBT events.
Official Definition of Diversity: “Diversity in this Administration’s book means, in addition to differences based on ethnicity, gender, age, religion, disability, national origin and sexual orientation, an infinite range of individuals’ unique characteristics and experiences, such as communication styles, career, work, life experience, educational backgrounds and other variables… The goal of diversity awareness is to create an inclusive, respectful and equitable work environment and community.”
Ordinance 64 (S-2) was a compromise measure that protected lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people from discrimination in employment, housing, education, public accommodations, financing, and Municipal practices, but included exemptions for religious organizations, public restrooms, business costs, dress codes and gender presentation in the workplace. The anti-gay lobby, lead by the Baptist churches, continued to call gays “perverted, diseased and depraved” and opposed the ordinance despite the compromises.
The Mayor’s Unity Dinner will be held on Friday, September 25, at the Hilton Anchorage Hotel. The event was called the Diversity Dinner in previous years, but Sullivan changed the name to Unity and invited Lynn Swann, ex-NFL player now an anti-gay Republican candidate for governor of Pennsylvania, as the keynote speaker. Community awards will be presented during the dinner.
“Our community is made up of many unique groups, but we all share some common values: the importance of family, quality education for our children, and safe, vibrant neighborhoods. This year’s event is meant to celebrate these values while respecting the diversity that makes Anchorage such a great place to live,” said Mayor Dan Sullivan.
The gay community of Anchorage has been trying to pass an equal rights ordinance for over 35 years. This summer was the third attempt. The Assembly passed it 7-4, one vote short of a veto-proof majority, and the mayor vetoed it a week later. The Assembly has 21 days to override the veto, but would need 8 votes in favor.
The Mayor’s CommUNITY Award Program recognizes those businesses, organizations and individuals in Anchorage that have advanced the causes of diversity and unity.
There are three awards in the Mayor’s CommUNITY Award Program:
- The Business CommUNITY Award recognizes an Anchorage business which best represents a corporate spirit of diversity and community through hiring practices, programs, and outreach.
- The Community and Nonprofit Organization Award is presented to the Anchorage group which best demonstrates its sustained committment to inclusive programs that enhance diversity and the community at large.
- The Individual Award recognizes a person who actively promotes inter-group relations among diverse populations in the City.
Examples of criteria to be used while selecting award winners include:
- The nominee’s long-term commitment to the value of building unity and diversity, including specific examples with documentation.
- The creation, development, promotion, organization or significant participation in events and programs that focus on diversity and community enhancement.
- Educational efforts in matters of diversity and community development including innovative programs/opportunities.
- Efforts in Collaboration with other community groups to recruit people from diverse backgrounds to increase participation by members of groups from all backgrounds.
Mail Forms (no later than September 12th) to: Municipality of Anchorage, Mayor’s CommUNITY Award Program, 632 W. 6th Avenue, Suite 620, Anchorage, AK 99501.
A diverse collection of small, mid-sized and large Anchorage businesses, including CIRI, an Alaska Native Corporation, signed a public statement in support of Ordinance 64. Many Fortune 500 companies do business in Anchorage and have nondiscrimination policies that include sexual orientation and gender identity.
We should nominate CIRI for the Business CommUNITY Award, and Identity for the non-profit award.
Municipality of Anchorage Diversity Council Mission and Purpose, as stated in the Diversity Council Brochure linked on the Mayor’s Diversity Month page:
“The mission of the Diversity Council is to attract and embrace diversity within the workforce and greater community. Purpose: To promote our strength, which is grounded in our diversity.”
“Scope of Activities:Identify and recommend changes to procedures/programs to promote diversity;Promote and publicize diversity;Monitor the Council’s effectiveness;Accept employee or non-member suggestions/complaints and respond as appropriate; and,Encourage recognition of employee involvement or support of diversity.”“The Municipality of Anchorage Celebrates Diversity!Diversity is Not an Option — It’s Our Obligation!Diversity: Embrace the Heart of It!“
“I hereby veto AO2009-64(S-2) as amended.”
September 1 is the first day of Mayor Sullivan’s so-called Diversity Month, just two weeks after he vetoed the Assembly’s anti-discrimination ordinance. For a national comparison, September 1 is also the first day that same-sex couples can get legally married in the state of Vermont. Six states, including Iowa, allow gay couples to get married.
To nominate an individual, business or company for a diversity award or host an event, visit the municipal website at www.muni.org/diversity. Individuals or organizations/companies interested in hosting a diversity event should complete the events form and fax it to 343-4875. Events can be scheduled for September and October.
Can we register the Pride Conference as an official city Diversity event?
To get information, ask questions or make suggestions about the Mayor’s Diversity Month, call (907) 343-4890.
Sara’s News Round-up, 8/31/09
For as long as I can remember, Sara Boesser has sent her NEWS round-up from Juneau every week, sharing an interesting mix of local, national and international items with a list of friends, allies and LGBT community members. Sara is also the author of Silent Lives: How High a Price? I’m pleased to welcome Sara and her NEWS to Bent Alaska!
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1) Join Alaskan contingent marching in DC on October 11
If you are or were an Alaskan resident (or friend of one) and want to march with other Alaskans at the National March on Washington on October 11, 2009, email Mo to join up.
Manzini, Swaziland, Times of Swaziland, August 30,2009
National Black Justice Coalition, August 9, 2009
4) Are You a Transgender Individual Who Was Born in Alaska?
Please contact Tiffany McClain at the ACLU of Alaska
Alaska, AkCLU, August 25, 2009
Madison, Wisconsin, Advocate, August 24, 2009
Iceland, Advocate, August 26, 2009
Washington, CNN, August 27, 2009
Des Moines, Iowa, Associated Press, August 26, 2009
Brisbane Times, August 27, 2009
Switzerland, SwissInfo, August 26, 2009 .
Washington, 365Gay.com, August 27, 2009
Advocate, August 28, 2009
Santa Ana, Calif., Washington Blade, August 28, 2009
Advocate, August 28, 2009
Utah, Salt Lake Tribune, August 21, 2009
U.K., The Independent, August 30, 2009
QueerWorld: 16th Alaska Pride Conference, Oct 10
Identity, Inc. is sponsoring QueerWorld, the 16th annual Alaska Pride Conference, at the APU Atwood Center on October 10, 2009 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. People of all ages, cultures, sexualities and professions attend the conference each year to strengthen ties with one another and build community. There will be 8 workshop sessions.
We are seeking inspiring presenters to share their knowledge, experiences and successes on diverse topics using innovative presentations. We welcome presentations that include a focus on connection, connecting with ourselves, one another and our communities. We hope to promote unity and community growth through QueerWorld.
E-mail Johnathan Jones, co-chair of QueerWorld, for the workshop proposal. The deadline for submitting proposals is September 25.
Protest Sullivan’s Veto Tonight at McGinley’s
Update: Bent was unable to attend this event, but Mel was there and wrote about it on Henkimaa.
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Stand up for Equality and be Counted: Protest Mayor Sullivan’s veto of the equal rights ordinance, tonight in front of McGinley’s Pub. Sullivan is part-owner of McGinley’s, and the customers should know that he supports discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
McGinley’s Pub is in downtown Anchorage at the corner of G Street and 7th Avenue, and the protest begins at 6:30 p.m. After the protest, go get a drink at one of the supportive businesses in Anchorage!
Sullivan vetoed Ordinance 64 on Monday, saying that he saw no evidence of anti-gay discrimination and was following the will of the people. The Anchorage Assembly passed the ordinance 7-4 on Aug 11, after weeks of public hearings showed the need for equal protections.
A spontaneous rally against the Mayor’s veto attracted about 100 people to City Hall on Monday. Ordinance supporters held big letters spelling EQUALITY NOW and signs saying, “Anchorage Mayor Supports Discrimination” and “Celebrating 50 Years of Discrimination.” The protestors marched down the street to McGinley’s Pub, chanting “Equal Rights Now” and “United We Stand, Divided We Fall.”
Two short videos of Monday’s protest, taken by Chris N., are posted below:
Mayor to Gays: You Don’t Count
On Monday afternoon, Mayor Sullivan vetoed the LGBT anti-discrimination ordinance passed 7-4 by the Assembly last week, citing a lack of evidence and the will of the majority as his reasons.
“I have received nearly 2,500 additional communications from Anchorage residents,” said Sullivan’s veto statement, and “the vast majority of those who communicated their position on the ordinance are in opposition.”
“Civil rights are not a popularity contest,” countered Jackie Buckley, spokesperson for Equality Works.
The news of the veto spread quickly through Alaska’s LGBTA community and protestors gathered at City Hall. A line of ordinance supporters along the street held big letters spelling EQUALITY NOW. Around them stood protestors with signs like, “Headline news: Anchorage Mayor Supports Discrimination” and “Celebrating 50 Years of Discrimination” based on the recent 50 Years of Statehood events.
The Assembly has 21 days to override the veto, and they are 1 vote short of the 8 needed to override. Their next meeting is Tuesday, August 25. Please email the Anchorage Assembly at WWMAS@ci.anchorage.ak.us and tell them that we DO matter, and we are counting on them to protect all minority groups from discrimination, not just the popular ones.
Equality Works Disappointed in Mayor’s Lack of Leadership
Equality Works today expressed disappointment in Mayor Sullivan’s lack of leadership in unnecessarily vetoing the hard work of the Assembly, which voted by a clear majority to provide much-needed equal rights protections for Anchorage’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.
“It’s a shame that the Mayor has decided to exclude LGBT people from the city’s promise of ‘equal opportunity for all persons,’ said Jackie Buckley, Equality Works spokesperson. “We will continue to work towards an Anchorage that guarantees residents will be judged on their ability to contribute to and participate in the economy and community, and their qualifications to be tenants, homeowners or patrons. We all deserve equal access to employment, housing, and public accommodations.”
“The Ordinance passed by the Assembly, after hours of testimony clearly documenting the need for these protections, is good for business, and would ensure that Anchorage can continue to attract and retain the best employees and customers. The Mayor’s actions are a step backwards.”
Sullivan VETOES Ordinance 64: no evidence, will of people
Statement from Mayor Sullivan’s office:
On August 11, 2009, the Anchorage Assembly passed AO2009-64(S-2) as amended. I have reviewed the ordinance, heard the Assembly justifications for and against it, and understand the sentiments expressed during the many hours of public testimony. Since the passage, I have received nearly 2,500 additional communications from Anchorage residents. I thank all of those who took the time to participate in the process.
My review shows that there is clearly a lack of quantifiable evidence necessitating this ordinance. My review also shows that the vast majority of those who communicated their position on the ordinance are in opposition.
As elected officials, we are charged with reflecting the will of the community in our decisions, particularly in the absence of compelling data that would supersede that will.
Therefore, I hereby veto AO2009-64(S-2) as amended.
Note: The mayor’s office does not plan to conduct individual media requests today. Questions will be referred back to the statement.
Native Corp, Credit Union & other businesses support Ordinance 64
UPDATE: Alaska Airlines has asked to be removed from the list of supportive businesses.
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The Anchorage business community supports the LGBT equal rights protections passed by the Assembly, Equality Works announced today, and the Alaska Native Corporation CIRI took a strong stand for equality.
The statement made by Jackie Buckley of Equality Works and supported by local business leaders reads:
“The Anchorage business community strongly supports AO 64. An open and diverse workplace fosters strong customer relations and a vibrant, expanding economy. Businesses have to recruit and retain the best and the brightest personnel. For us to succeed, Anchorage must protect everyone’s right to equal opportunity in employment, education, housing, financing, and public accommodations. We are pleased with the Assembly’s action and support including sexual orientation and gender identity in equal rights laws.”
Anchorage business leaders and small, mid-size, and large businesses joined in the statement:
Arctic Wire & Rope Supply, Cabin Fever, Circular, CIRI, Classic Woman/Portfolio, Copper Whale Inn, Credit Union One, Finite Technologies, Ginger, Middleway Café, Modern Dwellers, Quilted Raven, Snow City Café, Spenard Roadhouse, Sacks Café and Restaurant,
Glenn Johnson, Chief Financial Officer & Executive Director of Finance, Alaska Airlines, and Mike Jens, owner, Hawk Consultants.
Many national businesses with locations in Anchorage understand the business benefit in ensuring lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender employees are not discriminated against. They include: Aetna, Allstate, American Airlines, Bank of America, Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, BP America, Carrs-Safeway, Chevron, Chili’s Grill, Citigroup, Continental Airlines, Costco, Hilton Hotels, JC Penney Co., Merrill Lynch & Co., MetLife, Nordstrom, REI, Sears, Shell Oil Co., Staples, Starbucks, State Farm, Target, and Wells Fargo.
CIRI (Cook Inlet Region, Inc.) sent their own letter to Mayor Sullivan today, stating their support for the ordinance and asking that he allow it to become law. The CIRI letter, signed by Barbara Donatelli, Senior V.P. of Administration and Government Relations, is posted below with permission (emphasis is theirs, typing errors are mine.)
Dear Mayor Sullivan:Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (“CIRI”) strongly supports Anchorage Ordinance 2009-64 (“AO-64”) that was recently passed by the Anchorage Assembly and encourages you to support anti-discrimination in our community by allowing the ordinance to pass.CIRI strongly believes that all individuals deserve fair and equal employment opportunities, protection from unfair discrimination and the right to live their lives without fear. CIRI promotes fair and equal treatment within our own company through our Business Ethics and Compliance Program and our Code of Business Ethics and Compliance. Our policies provide “… equal employment to all persons regardless of ethnicity, religion, age, gender, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital and/or parental status.” These policies were developed to provide a clear and common understanding of CIRI’s values and the ethical expectations that we have for the conduct of our employees and business activities.As a major employer in our community, CIRI takes pride in our reputation as a good corporate citizen as demonstrated by our own monetary and in-kind contributions and volunteer activities, as well as those of our many affiliated subsidiaries and non-profit entities.As Mayor, you can take pride that AO-64 sends a clear message that our City protects the diversity we value so much and will not tolerate discrimination against individuals based upon their sexual orientation for employment, housing, education and public accommodation opportunities.CIRI joins many other businesses and organizations in voicing our support for AO-64 and urges you to do the right thing by not exercising your veto power over AO-64.Sincerely,Cook Inlet Region, Inc.
Bent Alaska applauds their stand for equality, and appreciates their willingness to support Ordinance 64 in a public letter. Although many national companies have LGBT-inclusive policies, it is significant that an Alaska Native Corporation like CIRI recognizes anti-gay discrimination as an ethical and business issue that is important to them.
Thank you to all the businesses that value us as part of the diverse workforce of Anchorage and have encouraged the Mayor to support Ordinance 64.
