On Monday, March 23, the Aberdeen School Board became the latest entity in South Dakota to consider updating its district-wide employment policy to protect employees on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.  Unfortunately, although the Sioux Falls, Pierre, and Brookings School Districts all have similar policies, the Aberdeen School Board opted not to be part of the growing trend.  The board voted 6-0 to keep its current policy, which provides protections on the basis of only race, sex, religion, national origin, and disability.

In his comments to the board during the meeting, school board attorney Rory King noted that although he did not feel it was appropriate for the school board to address employment discrimination against LGBT employees, he did feel that the state should take up the issue.  Because a number of school board members expressed similar opinions, we're hopeful that they would pass a resolution urging the state legislature to change its law to protect employees.

Even such a resolution won't be an easy win, however.  Our work has now drawn the attention of the South Dakota Family Policy Council, a statewide anti-equality group.  They are well-funded and well-connected...which means we'll need your help to reach as many people with our message as possible.  Click here to tell your friends, family, co-workers, and people you worship with about how to get involved in supporting equality!