Lot of activity this week concerning ENDA. Of course the big story is Barney Frank’s continuing insistence on two separate bills. In a statement on the House floor yesterday, the Representative stated that he had “nothing against” transgender inclusion; he merely felt that the original bill’s stance was too wide.
Barney Frank went on to say that, while a gender-identity inclusive bill would be preferable, the American people have not been properly educated on the subject. “Oh sure,” he said, “I tape every episode of Jerry Springer I can, but not everyone has that luxury.”
He added that it might take ‘years’ for the American populace to gain a sufficient understanding of transgenderism to allow trans-inclusive laws to be feasible. This he feels is unacceptable, as he really wants to have something for President Bush to veto by the end of the year.
To that end, H.B. 3685 has been introduced to the house. It’s fairly similar to the original, the main difference being the text: “No fems, no fatties, straight-acting only, please.”
Now, Barney Frank represents Massachusetts, where gays and lesbians have enjoyed the benefits of anti-discrimination law for many years. Unfortunately, the law in question does not cover trans folk, meaning that they can still be fired, denied employment and housing, and generally tossed out on the street to freeze and starve, assuming they don’t get beaten to death first. Still, they can get married, so that’s all right.
Actually, I have to apologize—that last statement isn’t exactly true. While the law doesn’t mention gender identity, favorable court cases in the state have ruled that transgender people can pursue anti-discrimination actions against employers, provided they present being transgendered as a handicap. Rather like using the insanity plea to get off on a parking ticket.
Still, there’s reason to be hopeful. In reaction to the segregated bill, literally hundreds of local, state and national groups have risen up in protest. Even as we speak, letters are being written, phone calls are being made. Protests are planned all across the country. Activists at all levels are standing up, and making it clear that they are ready to fight, and that they will not give up until they achieve what they know in their hearts to be true. And that, no matter how powerful the adversary, they will prevail.
And as soon as they get done with the HRC, they’re going after congress.
