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Content
General ::
Equality Summit in Pierre
Saturday, 06 March 2010 14:57
On February 17, Equality South Dakota gathered with friends in Pierre to celebrate and recommit to build upon the main gains made in our State in the cause of equality since our formation in 2007.
The three parts of Equality South Dakota (EqSD, EqSD PAC, and Equality SD Institute) were all well-represented. The event included updates from the groups as to what is going on, and a very interesting and helpful educational presentation on transgender issues. All present were reminded why we need to keep the "T" in "LGBT" -- as this group needs even more defense again discrimination and harassment.
We were joined by allied organizations, including the Centers For Equality from Sioux Falls, the Black Hills Center for Equality, and PFLAG representatives from Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, and Rapid City.We also had participation from the Aberdeen office of South Dakota's lone U.S. House member, Rep. Herseth Sandlin.
The ACLU also helped put on the event and gave us an update of their recent efforts to promote the citizenship and rights of everyone in South Dakota.
Just like last year, the event was capped off by a legislative reception to which all State Representatives and Senators were invited. Unlike last year, the weather didn't put a damper on attendance, and neither did political labels: many members of both parties were able to attend.
It was clear that South Dakota is moving forward!
State News ::
Equality SD Fights for Non Discrimination Law
Sunday, 21 February 2010 08:00
HB 1144 Hearing in Pierre
State News -- "This past weeks historical moment in EqSD's fight for equality took place in a committee hearing room within the State Capitol in Pierre, SD. On the morning of Tuesday February 16th, 2010 an Equality SD testifying team took up the first but not last effort to add sexual orientation and gender identity status to the states non discrimination law.
This bill, HB 1144 was introduced into the 2010 legislative session by Equality South Dakota"
To listen to the webcast of the House Health & Human Services hearing. Click Here… The HB 1144 portion appears later in the hearing. Skip ahead 1 hour and 53 minutes.
State News ::
HB 1144 introduced with bipartisan support. Take action!
Tuesday, 02 February 2010 14:06
HB 1144 (full text) was introduced in Pierre last week by Rep. Deb Peters (R-Hartford) and Sen. Nancy Turbak-Berry (D-Watertown), along with 24 of their colleagues from both sides of the aisle. It would add sexual orientation, gender identity, age, and military/veteran status to the list of reasons someone can't be discriminated against on the job, in housing, public accomodations, or in education. We know this legislation has a real shot at passing, and you can help make that a reality.
Your legislators need to hear from you today! If you don't know who they are or how to get a hold of them, click here to find out.
Not sure what to say? No problem! Here are 3 things you can tell them:
1.) South Dakotans support this. 83% of South Dakotans want people to be treated equally on the job, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
2.) HB 1144 is good for South Dakota. Updating state law can help keep young people here who would otherwise feel compelled to leave South Dakota, and can help attract new people and businesses to our state.
3.) Businesses have been leading the way. 44 of the 50 largest South Dakota employers include sexual orientation and/or gender identity in their non-discrimination policies, including the South Dakota Board of Regents. They wouldn’t have done so unless it helped their bottom line, and they recognize that inclusive policies attract and retain the best and brightest talent.
Contacting your legislator is vital to making sure all employees are protected from discrimination.
State News ::
Workplace Fairness - Primary Focus of Equality South Dakota
Tuesday, 12 January 2010 21:01
For Immediate Release -- Issue date: January 8, 2010
Workplace Fairness for Gay & Transgender South Dakotans Remains Primary Focus for Equality South Dakota
SIOUX FALLS – Eighty-three percent (83%) of South Dakotans think everyone should be treated equally with regard to employment and job opportunities – regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. This is a finding from a Dec 21, 2009 scientific poll conducted by Robinson & Muenster Associates, Inc.
This data confirms that Equality South Dakota (EqSD) is on the right track in making the strategic decision to focus the organization’s efforts on Workplace Fairness. “All workers should be judged solely on their merits,” says chair Robert Doody, a Sioux Falls attorney. “Hardworking South Dakotans should have the chance to earn a living and provide for their families. South Dakota cannot afford to deny anyone the option to contribute to the economic life of our state because of characteristics that have no bearing whatsoever on the ability to do a job.”