WHEREAS:

AFSCME has been a leader among unions in calling for equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) workers.  Rooted in a history that uplifts the dignity of all work and every worker, AFSCME has stood with LGBT workers who are denied jobs, promotions and benefits because of their sexual orientation or gender identity; and

WHEREAS:

AFSCME affiliates have successfully negotiated benefits for members and their domestic partners, as well as non-discrimination clauses that include sexual orientation and gender identity; and

WHEREAS:

Legislation at the state and local level that threatens these rights and benefits for public workers continues to surface; and

WHEREAS:

Federal legislation such as the Defense of Marriage Act continues to undermine any gains made towards LGBT equality; and

WHEREAS:

For many AFSCME members who identify as LGBT, a union contract is the only protection they have.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME continue to support legislation at the local, state and national levels which prohibits discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation or gender identity, affords equal benefits to LGBT workers and their families and grants true equality for LGBT families in every respect; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME affiliates continue to negotiate contracts with non-discrimination clauses that include both sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as benefits for members and their same-sex domestic partners; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

            That AFSCME’s LGBT members and allies unite to call for dignity and equality for all LGBT workers.