ENDA Matters

“It would be nice if in my lifetime I could see an end to this discrimination and hatred because of who I am and who I love.” – Gwen K.

Between the partisan bickering and the media firestorm, we sometimes lose sight of what these elections are really about. Without fail though, there are moments that pull everything back into perspective. Whether it’s an offhand comment from someone at a parade, a story at a small gathering, or, in this case, notes from a strangers across the country, there’s always something that reminds me that this and all elections are fundamentally about people.

“I had to hide my orientation to preserve job security.” – Linda L.

Since my campaign released a petition telling Congress to pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), we’ve received thousands of signatures and comments. The quotes you see in this post are from real people – people who worked in fear every day of their lives because there was no law protecting them from being fired simply for being honest about themselves, and their allies. ENDA would extend the most-basic workplace protections based on race, age, sex, national origin, religion, and disability to sexual orientation and gender identity.

“We are all created equal lets start acting like it.” – Brenda M.

It’s easy to forget that these policies affect real people. Especially with ENDA, we’re talking about people’s livelihoods – their jobs are at risk because of who they are, not what they do. I have friends who have shared this fear. Equality should mean equality for all. For millions of Americans, this is more than policy – it’s personal. Just listen to all these voices.

“People should be judged on their abilities and should not have to worry about their employment due to the prejudice of others.” – Dennis J.

To me, nothing could symbolize the gridlock and extreme ideologies that have dominated the 112^th Congress more than its refusal to pass ENDA. These are not special protections; they do not offer any new protections not already enjoyed by other employees; and they do not even allow for disparate impact lawsuits. All ENDA does is ensure equality for all in the workplace. When I talk about common-sense policies, this is what I mean. Nothing could be more basic.

“These are our children that are being targeted.” – Chris D.

ENDA matters because it affects people’s lives and livelihoods. The notes and comments are already one of the great moments of this campaign – moments that reaffirm that we’re making a difference. I am proud and I am humbled to have this support.

“Worried about this for 40 years. No more!” – Craig S.

Help me put an end to workplace discrimination by signing my petition lobbying Congress to pass this important legislation at www.PassENDA.com.

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Brad Schneider
Candidate for United States Congress - 10th District