AdvanceUSA Blog - ENDA

“Obama Nominates Lesbian Activist To Employment Post”

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:14:05 GMT

The Bulletin reports. Also, FRC has footage of Feldblum explaining how “gay rights” trump religious liberty.

HT: FRC

Congressman Barney Frank Pushes ENDA

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 01:16:42 GMT

ABC News reports that Congressman Barney Frank is pushing legislation that would force employers to accommodate homosexuals and cross-dressers. Despite supposed religious exemptions in the legislation, this bill would force many employers to legitimize sexual behavior that they might find offensive or inappropriate.

“New ENDA Bill 'Turns Private Sin into a Public Right'”

AdvanceUSA — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:18:22 GMT

OneNewsNow reports.

Senators Reintroduce ENDA

AdvanceUSA — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 21:46:30 GMT

The Hill reports that several senators have introduced legislation that would require businesses to accommodate and legitimize many forms of sexual deviancy in the work place. Similar legislation in several states has allowed male cross dressers to enter women’s restrooms. Although fighting workplace discrimination always sounds good, ENDA would pose a huge threat to religious liberty and public safety.

Congressman “Frank Brings Back Wider-Ranging ENDA”

AdvanceUSA — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:03:56 GMT

CitizenLink reports.

“Faith Groups Increasingly Lose Gay Rights Fights”

AdvanceUSA — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 02:35:01 GMT

The Washington Post reports.

“Gay Marriage Takes Center Stage”

AdvanceUSA — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 02:47:43 GMT

The Hill reports that the US Congress will soon be facing legislation designed to undermine the traditional definition of marriage and offer special unequal privileges based solely on sexual behavior.

“Obama: Building a Monument to Tolerance on the Rubble of Religious Freedom”

AdvanceUSA — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 03:33:46 GMT

Alan Sears of Exodus International explains. Excerpt:

No sooner had he finished speaking of his fellow Americans in his inaugural address as a people who “have chosen hope over fear [and] unity of purpose over conflict and discord” than his staff posted, on the White House Web site, a virtual declaration of war against those who oppose the demands for special rights and privileges by those who engage in homosexual behavior.

“Obama Stands Firm on 'Gay Rights' Support”

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 22:44:30 GMT

Baptist Press reports.

AdvanceUSA Interview with Patrick Mangan

AdvanceUSA — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 17:13:12 GMT

Daniel Herbster reporting

Citizens for Community Values of Indiana is one of the many great organizations in our nation fighting to protect family values and to oppose pornography and sexually oriented businesses. I had the opportunity to interview Patrick Mangan, the Executive Director of CCV of IN, about his work enabling people to take back their communities.

DH: Patrick, I’ve enjoyed getting to know you and your organization better over the last few months, so it’s a pleasure to introduce you to our readers here at AdvanceUSA Blog. I’ve seen first-hand how your work affects the state of Indiana and especially my home town of South Bend. Tell our readers what kinds of issues Citizens for Community Values works on?

PM: Well our mission is to protect men, women, and children from the misinformation of sexual activists, and the harms of sexual addictions, sexual predators, sexually oriented businesses, materials harmful to minors, broadcast indecency, and the porn/sex industry in all of its forms, by promoting the principles of the Judeo/Christian ethic which is the foundation of our nation.

Our vision is to empower concerned citizens and community leaders to significantly reduce sexual exploitation, promiscuity, and abuse in Indiana and beyond by:

Increasing public awareness of the harmful effects of pornography-inspired sexual promiscuity, addiction, and abuse particularly in the lives of children.
Supporting the enactment, defense, and enforcement, within the Constitution, of limitations on the porn/sex industry in all its forms.
Lovingly opposing the legitimacy of all extramarital sexual relationships.
Faithfully supporting the traditional family based on the premise that marriage equals one man and one woman.
Offering assistance to people suffering from the results of sexual addiction, sexual confusion, promiscuity, and sexual abuse.

DH: What have been some of your greatest achievements as an organization over the years?

PM: We have been successful in Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois, at placing constitutionally valid public health and safety restrictions on the porn/sex industry. The Mishawaka Adult Business Ordinance was upheld in Federal Court and before the 7^th Circuit Court of Appeals and has become a model for hundreds of communities across America. Eventually the porn attorneys abandoned their challenge to the US Supreme Court expecting the same outcome as in the lower courts. The adult business which challenged the ordinance later paid a fine of $25,000 for violating the ordinance. This has been a key strategy to closing or discouraging the opening of dozens of strip bars, massage parlors, and escort services in the region. A complete list of our community victories can be found at www.ccvindiana.com.

We have also been successful at “lovingly opposing the homosexual agenda” in the region and engaging activists at the University of Notre Dame. We have stopped special rights ordinances twice in South Bend. See www.nospecialrights.com to see the full dimension of our CCV NoSpecialRights.net Task Force efforts.

DH: Conservatives across the nation were excited to see all three state marriage amendments that were up for votes pass in 2008. Why is it so important to protect the traditional definition of marriage via legislation and state constitutional amendments?

PM: Marriage between one man and one woman is the fundamental building block of civilization. It certainly is the cornerstone of Western civilization and the United States of America. Leading scholars from respected Universities across the country offered this explanation in what has been dubbed the Princeton Principles at www.princetonprinciples.com:

The purpose of this document is to make a substantial new contribution to the public debate over marriage. Too often, the rational case for marriage is not made at all or not made very well. As scholars, we are persuaded that the case for marriage can be made and won at the level of reason. Marriage protects children, men, and women and the common good. The health of marriage is particularly important in a free society, which depends upon citizens to govern their private lives and rear their children responsibly, so as to limit the scope, size, and power of the state. The nation’s retreat from marriage has been particularly consequential for our society’s most vulnerable communities: minorities and the poor pay a disproportionately heavy price when marriage declines in their communities. Marriage also offers men and women as spouses a good they can have in no other way: a mutual and complete giving of the self. Thus, marriage understood as the enduring union of husband and wife is both a good in itself and also advances the public interest.

Ten Principles on Marriage and the Public Good

Marriage is a personal union, intended for the whole of life, of husband and wife.
Marriage is a profound human good, elevating and perfecting our social and sexual nature.
Ordinarily, both men and women who marry are better off as a result.
Marriage protects and promotes the wellbeing of children.
Marriage sustains civil society and promotes the common good.
Marriage is a wealth-creating institution, increasing human and social capital.
When marriage weakens, the equality gap widens, as children suffer from the disadvantages of growing up in homes without committed mothers and fathers.
A functioning marriage culture serves to protect political liberty and foster limited government.
The laws that govern marriage matter significantly.
“Civil marriage” and “religious marriage” cannot be rigidly or completely divorced from one another.

DH: Is it true that Indiana could have been a fourth state to have a marriage amendment on its 2008 ballot? Why did this not happen?

PM: Yes. At the urging of citizens, pro-family leaders, business leaders, scholars, and faith leaders, a bipartisan majority of elected Representatives in Indiana have repeatedly passed an Amendment to protect the definition of marriage, but have been thwarted from finally bringing it to the ballot for voter ratification, because Indiana Speaker of the House Pat Bauer (D) from South Bend has buried the bill in committee in its final step and not allowed there to be a vote on the floor. One man has been blocking this amendment reportedly for no other reason than he is afraid to have it on the ballot because he is afraid of a bipartisan conservative vote that could cost him and his party the control of the House. Playing politics with the definition of marriage and the heritage of Hoosier families is one of the most cynical and hypocritical actions I have ever witnessed form someone who dares to call himself a “public servant.” In my opinion, it has become his legacy and is one of the most obvious reasons why he must be removed as Speaker of the House.

DH: How was CCV of Indiana started?

PM: Our founders, Joe Sergio, Dennis Staffelback, Mike Hamann, and Michael Edwards established CCV on September 11, 1995 in response to the largest adult business in Indiana being opened on the south side of South Bend. As Dr. Sergio was praying and asking God to do something about the predatory business, God told him to do something. And Joe and his friends did. Thirteen years later, CCV of Indiana has been winning the culture war for the Heartland for over a decade and has become one of the most successful regional pro-family organizations in the country because of God’s grace and His people’s prayers and obedience.

DH: What are some of the common misconceptions regarding pornography and sexually oriented businesses?

PM: For years the porn sex industry has been engaged in a misinformation campaign that has caused many people to lower their guard. Unfortunately, the most vulnerable, the children, are being victimized at an alarming rate.

61% of all victims are under 18 years of age
Girls ages 12 to 15 are victims of violent crime at a rate 84% higher than the general public
Children ages 7-13 are at peak vulnerability for victimization
40% of imprisoned sex offenders reported that their victims were less than 12 years old
87% of child molesters studied admitted to regular use of adult pornography
57% of rapists studied admitted acting out on their victims what they saw in pornography
The average pedophile molests up to 60 children before they are caught the first time and up to 300 in their lifetime.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice 500,000 pedophiles reside in the United States! (Check your State’s Sex Offense Registry to see how many live in your community.)

This is not a victimless crime. And it is harmful to look at pornography. Ironically, an addiction that is focused on acts of sexual intimacy, often ultimately renders a person incapable of true intimacy and many sexual dysfunctions. For more information about the harms of pornography addiction go to our victim assistance website at www.victimassistance.info.

DH: How could our readers fight pornography and sexually oriented businesses in their communities?

PM: Contact us at Citizens for Community Values of Indiana through our website www.ccvindiana.com or call us at 574-247-9299 and become part of our growing network of informed citizens and prayer warriors. We can help you to protect the families of your community from the harms of the porn/sex industry in all of its forms and from sexual activists who will create great harms if left unchecked in your government, schools, and neighborhoods.

DH: What legislation are you watching out for on the local, state, and national level?

PM: We are carefully watching any attempts to advance the homosexual agenda through special rights legislation that harm everyone else’s constitutional rights such as “hate crimes” expansion and ENDA which are really little more than veiled attempts to criminalize Christianity.

We are supportive of pro-family legislation that will define marriage as the union between one man and one woman, and reject the fraud of civil unions. 30 States have now adopted Marriage Protection Amendments and we hope Indiana will be one of the next states to do so.

We are also concerned about President Elect Barack Obama’s promise to enact FOCA (Freedom of Choice Act) which could reverse 30 years of pro-life gains to reduce the national tragedy of abortion. FOCA would also empower organizations like Planned Parenthood to promote “how to” sex education to elementary school children, and would eliminate abstinence based sex education programs that do help protect our children from premature sexual activity and sexually transmitted diseases.

DH: Thanks for your time. Keep up the great work!

Note: The views of any interviewee do not necessarily reflect the views of AdvanceUSA.

“More U.S. Companies Cater to 'Transgendered' Employees”

AdvanceUSA — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:26:10 GMT

CitizenLink reports. Excerpt:

Last year, the U.S. House of Representatives took up a bill that would have enshrined homosexuality and "transgenderism" in federal law. The legislation passed only after language to include "gender identity" was taken out. The Senate has not taken up the measure, but it is expected to resurface in Congress next year.

AdvanceUSA Interview with Jim Pfaff

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 20:33:17 GMT

Daniel Herbster reporting

Did you know that legislation could be passed in your state or on the national level that would allow cross dressers or even sexual offenders to use women’s restrooms? The state of Colorado recently passed such a law in the misguided desire to prevent “discrimination” against “transgendered” individuals. AdvanceUSA interviewed Jim Pfaff (who now works for Americans for Prosperity) back in April about his work at the Colorado Family Institute. We’ve decided to touch base with him again about Colorado’s Senate Bill 200 and how it could be a grim harbinger of things to come nation-wide.

DH: Senate Bill 200, recently signed by Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter, claims to protect against “discrimination.” Do you think that is true?

JP: It really doesn't protect anyone from discrimination. The legislation was intended to protect homosexuals, bisexuals, and transgendered individuals from so-called discrimination. But really no such discrimination existed. The proponents of the bill claimed that there were a multitude of homosexuals being systematically discriminated against, but we looked at the numbers and found out that at best approximately 175 cases of such discrimination were ever brought forward. And of those, less than 3 to 4% had any validity to them. On the other hand, we maintain that this bill actually will have the effect of imposing by government Fiat a new form of discrimination against those of sincere religious belief. And as I said in our previous interview, one example we have is a Christian couple in Albuquerque New Mexico who owned a photography company and was hauled into a civil rights court because they refused to take pictures of a lesbian same-sex commitment ceremony based on their sincerely held religious belief. We believe many more cases like this will begin to emerge here in Colorado, and in our opinion this bill therefore does nothing to protect anyone from discrimination and, to the contrary, will likely cause new forms of discrimination.

DH: What are some of the scary implications of this bill? What could happen as a result of its passage?

JP: Well, the first and the most scary application of this bill is the fact that based on the wording of this law, any man, for example, can of legal right to enter a woman's restroom by merely stating that he perceives himself to be a woman. That's the first and most concerning aspect of this new law. But secondly, as I stated before, this bill could be used to discriminate against people of sincere religious belief became merely refuse to appropriately accommodate homosexuals, bisexuals and transgendered individuals based on a sincerely held religious belief.

DH: Is there a push to enact this kind of legislation on the national level or in other states?

JP: Yes, there has been an effort in Congress to enact this very type of legislation. In a month of course, many other states are considering or have passed such legislation. In fact, the New Mexico law to which I referred before is very similar to this new Colorado law.

DH: Is there an effort in Colorado to repeal this legislation?

JP: There is not currently an effort to repeal this legislation. We have a very free and open ballot process which allows any individual to submit such a repeal measure. It is not likely, even after the elections in November, that any bill introduced to repeal SB 200 could see the light of day because the Colorado Gen. Assembly is likely to remain in Democratic hands.

DH: What could our readers do to prevent sexually-based anti-discrimination laws such as this from being passed in their states or in our national government?

JP: Well, first of all they need to get involved. Now I know that this is something we say over and over a given, but it really is important for individuals reading this interview to decide that if they care about the direction our country and/or their state is taking, they must find some way big or small to get involved. That begins with finding a solid pro-life, pro-family organization in their state, and contacting that organization and letting them know that they will be willing to help as a volunteer and anyway they might need. Secondly, they need to get involved with the local political party of their choice. They need to do the regular door-to-door knocking, phone calling, and other volunteer work and learn how to work in and through the political system. Then if they feel called to do so, they need to run for school board or city Council or further local state legislature. Everyone needs to help a little bit on the volunteer level.

DH: How does this issue relate to hate crimes and workforce discrimination legislation, and how are these kinds of legislation dangerous?

JP: Well, we need to understand that bills like SB 200 often lead to a court action which impose these kinds of things upon us. But also, when a legislature passes these kinds of bills, and there is little or no outcry from the people, it only empowers them to take the next step and pass things like he crimes legislation. Now here in Colorado, we passed workforce termination laws in the 2007 session. So SB 200 was in fact just the next step. And they moved very quickly to bring it forward in 2008 because they have such large majorities in the House and the Senate, and the governor willing to sign these kinds of bills. What we need here in Colorado and what is needed in many other states is for people to take a stand and elect more pro-family, pro-life legislators.

DH: Jim, thanks for sharing with our readers about this crucial issue. Stay in touch.

Note: The views of any interviewee do not necessarily reflect the views of AdvanceUSA.

“'Transsexual' Man Sues Library of Congress over Job Offer”

AdvanceUSA — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:39:11 GMT

CitizenLink reports.

“New York Considers Special Rights for 'Transgendered' Students”

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:31:28 GMT

CitizenLink reports.

Congress Considers Dangerous “Anti-Discrimination” Laws for Transgenders

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 01:03:16 GMT

McClatchy News reports on the recent Congressional hearings on “transgender employment discrimination.” So-called anti-discrimination legislation would be a dangerous restriction on religious liberty. Excerpt:

Opposing the legislation, Glen Lavy, an attorney with the Alliance Defense Fund, said it would be a mistake to define gender identity or gender expression as a protected class. He said that objections to "the concept of transgender" are based on religious beliefs and that forcing the idea as a valid concept "is like forcing an Orthodox Jew to eat pork." And he said that employers would have difficulty enforcing dress codes and assuring privacy.

"With gender identity being totally subjective, who could challenge any male who says he wants to use a woman's restroom?" Lavy asked.

Rep. John Kline of Minnesota, the top-ranking Republican on the committee, questioned whether Congress needs to get involved at all.

"We have numerous federal and state laws and employer policies already on the books that help prevent discriminatory practices," he said. "Do we need yet another federal law?"

“House Subcommittee Considers Protections for 'Transgendered' Individuals”

AdvanceUSA — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:44:52 GMT

CitizenLink reports.

House Hearings on Transgender Discrimination

AdvanceUSA — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 15:23:47 GMT

The House Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions Subcommittee is now holding hearings entitled “An Examination of Discrimination Against Trangender Americans in the Workplace.” View the live video here.

One of the goals of these hearings is to advance legislation which would require businesses and religious organizations to hire cross dressers and sex-change operation recipients despite any religious or moral convictions which would be violated.

Congress to Hold Dangerous “Anti-Discrimination” Hearings on Sexual Identity

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:40:56 GMT

As this gay publication reports, Congress will hold hearings on dangerous legislation such as ENDA which would endanger religious liberty at the expense of a misguided notion of “gay rights.”

“Gay Rights, Religious Liberties: A Three-Act Story”

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:26:40 GMT

As this NPR article demonstrates, when “gay rights” and religious liberty conflict, religious liberty usually loses. This is an important fact to emphasize as gay couples are now obtaining marriage licenses in California.

A few examples cited by NPR:

A few cases: Yeshiva University was ordered to allow same-sex couples in its married dormitory. A Christian school has been sued for expelling two allegedly lesbian students. Catholic Charities abandoned its adoption service in Massachusetts after it was told to place children with same-sex couples. The same happened with a private company operating in California.

A psychologist in Mississippi who refused to counsel a lesbian couple lost her case, and legal experts believe that a doctor who refused to provide IVF services to a lesbian woman is about to lose his pending case before the California Supreme Court.

And then there's the case of a wedding photographer in Albuquerque, N.M.

On January 28, 2008, the New Mexico Human Rights Commission heard the case of Vanessa Willock v. Elane Photography.

Willock, in the midst of planning her wedding to her girlfriend, sent the photography company an e-mail request to shoot the commitment ceremony. Elaine Huguenin, who owns the company with her husband, replied: "We do not photograph same-sex weddings. But thanks for checking out our site! Have a great day!"

Willock filed a complaint, and at the hearing she explained how she felt.

"A variety of emotions," she said, holding back tears. "There was a shock and anger and fear. ... We were planning a very happy day for us, and we're being met with hatred. That's how it felt."

Willock declined to be interviewed, as did the owners of Elane Photography. At the hearing, Jonathan Huguenin said that when he and his wife formed the company two years ago, they made it company policy not to shoot same-sex ceremonies, because the ceremonies conflicted with their Christian beliefs.

“Canadian Pastor Fined after Speaking Against Homosexuality”

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:14:07 GMT

CitizenLink reports. If the dangerous “hate (thought) crimes” and ENDA legislation now in Congress gets passed into law, we could see similar persecution in the United States.

“Gay Rights vs. Religious Liberty”

AdvanceUSA — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:29:56 GMT

Brian Fitzpatrick explains how the modern push for “gay rights” endangers religious liberty. He catalogues the outrageous international cases of religious discrimination and demonstrates how legislation currently being pushed in Congress will bring such restrictions to the United States.

Our friends at FRC have also been sounding the alarm. If you don’t want churches, private schools, and businesses to be forced to hire homosexuals or “transgendered” people and you don’t want Christians to be persecuted for their religious convictions contact Congress today. Call both your senators and your representative and urge them to vote against the Employment Non-Discrimination Act or any legislation giving “domestic partnership” benefits to homosexual couples.

Colorado Legislature Allows “Transgender” Men to Use Women’s Restrooms

AdvanceUSA — Sat, 31 May 2008 01:55:41 GMT

It appears the Colorado Legislature is trying to keep up with California for nuttiness. As the Colorado Springs Gazette reports, Gov. Ritter signed a bill into law which would allow the “transgendered” to use whichever restroom they prefer and no private business is allowed to prohibit this activity, all in the name of so-called “non-discrimination” and “equality.” Excerpt:

One aspect of the law enables transgenders - those who were born one gender but identify with the other - to use public restrooms in which they feel most comfortable.

…

Focus founder James Dobson said Thursday:

"Who would believe that the Colorado state Legislature and its governor would have made it legal for men to enter and use women's restrooms and locker room facilities without notice or explanation?

"Henceforth, every woman and little girl will have to fear that a predator, bisexual, cross-dresser or even a homosexual or heterosexual male might walk in and relieve himself in their presence."

Don’t think this kind of legislation won’t be coming to a state near you in the near future. Liberal activist are pushing for similar legislation on the federal level such as ENDA and other items.

Keep checking AdvanceUSA Blog for the latest news on these important issues.

Colorado Today, the Entire U.S. Tomorrow

AdvanceUSA — Thu, 22 May 2008 20:22:17 GMT

CitizenLink reports on the outrageous “non-discrimination” legislation in Colorado which would make “open to men, women, bisexuals, transsexuals and ‘transgendered’ individuals.” If ENDA or similar legislation is passed in Congress, the entire country could be subjected to these kinds of policies.

Graphic source: CitizenLink

AdvanceUSA Interview with Randy Thomas

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 13 May 2008 13:59:48 GMT

Daniel Herbster reporting

Exodus International is the largest network of former homosexuals in the world and assists local ministries around the world in helping people overcome same-sex attraction and the homosexual lifestyle through a relationship with Christ. They also use their unique expertise to speak out on important cultural and societal issues. I’ve had the opportunity to work with members of Exodus on a number of occasions so it’s great to be able to interview my friend Randy Thomas who is Vice President of Exodus. The following is my interview with Randy.

DH: Randy, how long has Exodus been in existence and how did it get started?

RT: In 1976, sixty-two ministry leaders met in California to talk about their efforts to help those dealing with unwanted same-sex attraction and how they, as independent ministries, could network to help one another in this effort. The vision and name for Exodus was born out of obvious parallels that could be drawn from the Children of Israel leaving Egypt and entering the Promise Land. These visionaries had the accurate view that being “gay” should not be the only option for those with same sex attractions. They knew that our “Promise Land” was the knowledge of and relationship with Jesus Christ. They knew that there was so much more to life than what a gay ideology was offering and so they developed the network we now know as Exodus. Thirty-three years later our network has over 200 member agencies across North America who reach thousands of people seeking help. We are also affiliated with other ministries around the world who offer this perspective on homosexuality to a world hungering for positive alternatives.

Sixty-two people cast a vision that has now helped millions of people and educated millions more about biblical sexuality.

DH: One of the tenants of our modern, politically correct culture holds that sexual orientation is inherent and unchangeable but “gender identity” is unfixed and can change. Do you think this is true, and how does Exodus’s unique perspective relate to this issue?

RT: Recently I wrote on my personal blog a post called “The Transgender Double Standard.” In it I shared, ‘It’s always astounded me how willing some in the gay activist community are to celebrate someone surgically altering their body to “become” who they perceive to be internally. Yet when I determine I want to reorient my sexual orientation, which does not require drastic surgery or body altering drugs, according to those same activists, I am the one doing damage to myself and others by simply holding to a particular worldview that brings me contentment and sexual reorientation. The transgendered are applauded for radically altering their bodies while I am scolded for holding the belief that I would be happier living out who I truly am regardless of my past life as a gay identified man. It¹s ok for someone to ignore what they were obviously born as, but for people like me - we are told being “gay” is genetic and should be embraced because we have no other option.’

This is a terrible conundrum for militant gay activism because their own moral relativism is being exposed. We were all created with free will. We all have the ability to define right and wrong for ourselves. The issue with moral relativism is that eventually it will prove out to be hypocritical because it is self based moral judgments instead of God¹s creative intent which is unchanging. Sixteen years ago I decided that maybe God’s intent for my sexuality and identity just might be beyond my own seemingly logical conclusions. I started to question everything in life and attempting to live out my identity and sexuality in accordance with my faith. My identity has completely changed in that I am not a “gay” man anymore. I am a Christian. I will hopefully be known as a man of God. My sexual orientation has shifted a great deal as a byproduct of my pursuing purity and holiness.

Notice I said shifted. I am not above temptation and if temptation happens, I know why and what to do about it. Regardless, homosexuality does not have the power to determine who I am or how I steward my sexuality.

DH: Would you mind telling us about your background and how you came to work at Exodus?

RT: Sixteen years ago, I was living life as a gay man. All of my relational, political, and social needs were defined by a worldview that fed my appetites and met my needs, albeit just temporarily. I didn't particularly care for Christians and having grown up in a fatherless home in an abusive environment, I remembered having same-sex attractions at an early age. I followed those attractions and I thought being "gay" was my only option. I had moved out of the closet only to find myself living in a pigeonhole. In the early 1990s, a friend of mine asked me, "Randy, do you take a bath so you can take a shower?" I shook my head and laughed at her silly metaphor and said no. She, undaunted and committed to the metaphor, said, "Well the Lord doesn't want you to figure it all out before you come to Him ... just come to Him. Everything else will be sorted out in due time." I came to Christ because He just made sense to me. I asked the Lord into my heart, and I did have one of those experiences where I felt His presence in the room. Over time, God began to deal with the broken places in my heart and that included leading me out of a life dominated by same-sex attraction.

DH: How can our readers find out more about Exodus, and what are some ways they could help support what you do?

RT: People can visit us online at http://www.exodus.to/ or give us a call toll free at (888) 264-0877. Our website is full of helpful information for men and women dealing with same sex attraction. We also have resources for spouses, family, friends, youth and churches available through the website and on http://www.exodusbooks.org/. The best way someone can support us right now is in prayer. We mean that sincerely. People can also look up their local area Member Ministry, Exodus Member Churches and Professional Counselors and pray for them. Of course, like all Christian workers, our network needs volunteers and financial support. We would be honored to work with others who have a heart to see a redemptive approach to homosexuality gain further exposure in our culture.

DH: Is there any advice you would give to Christians when attempting to reach out to those struggling with or living in a lifestyle of homosexuality, or to those seeking to oppose the radical homosexual agenda in a loving way?

RT: This question is exactly why Alan Chambers and the leadership team here at Exodus wrote the book God¹s Grace and the Homosexual Next Door. It was written for Christians who have a heart to befriend and love their gay identified neighbors and family members. I often share that the great commission is not the great “gay” mission. The gospel is paramount.

Opposing gay political ideology needs to happen, but not at the expense of a gracious and redemptive attitude toward those who identify as gay or lesbian. Indeed, if you do not have the love of Christ in your heart toward the gay community, you do not have the moral authority to enter into public policy battles.

DH: Activists with the Human Rights Council recently met in Washington, DC to lobby for legislation that would make it a crime to fire or refuse to hire someone based on their “perceived gender or sexual orientation” (ENDA) and for various legislation which would offer marriage benefits to same-sex couples. What is Exodus’s perspective on ENDA and these other so-called “pro-family” or “pro-equality” measures?

RT: Exodus has been on record as opposing the redefinition of marriage, the use of hate crimes legislation to suppress freedom of conscience and religious liberty as well as ENDA, the corporate version of hate crimes. ENDA is another example of the state forcing a state sanctioned sexual morality at the expense of religious liberty.

Exodus has only been involved in these public policy battles for the past five years and while we have very strong beliefs, I think it is a mistake for Christians to believe that Joe Solomnese, a gay identified man in charge of the HRC (largest gay lobby in the world) wants to proverbially burn Christians at the stake. While he has been dismissive of my life and testimony, I choose not to be dismissive of his because I once believed as he does. My only desire was to live in a homosexual relationship.

Regardless of morality, emotional and relational investments run deep. As a gay man I paid taxes and was an American citizen. I believed in the HRC and yet I had no desire to hurt or deny Christians their civil liberties. I think most gay identified people don’t either. There are some who want Christians to be punished for what they perceive as bigotry and may use this legislation to do so. That is why these policies must be opposed. At the same time, I would remind Christians to not fear. We do not ignore public policy threats and do our best to serve our “opponents” with dignity and grace.

Humans like to actually try to assert reason, for the most part. We should take a look at what the HRC is saying and doing. Then we should oppose outright falsehood, address common concerns and all the while assert civility and reasonableness. While many militant gay activists are irreconcilable, the other 98% will recognize true civility and will respect you even if they strongly disagree.

DH: I understand that you are an avid blogger. Where could our readers find your personal web log? What do you think are some of the benefits of blogging, and how do you think it could be useful in seeking to affect the culture in the positive way?

RT: I think blogging is truly the “New Media.” It’s a fantastic and creative way for people to give voice to their cares, concerns... Joys and celebrations ... Blogs are amazing and are simply another way that Freedom is truly expressed at the grass roots. Also, just like the grass roots, when blogs act in tandem it can affect powerful change. It was the blogosphere that first broke the news of the fake memo that cost Dan Rather his job and exposed liberal bias at CBS. All of the major Presidential candidates are raising millions and millions of dollars and armies of volunteers through blogs. Blogs are an amazing manifestation of a public disillusioned with the “old” or Mainstream Media.

DH: I understand that protecting the institution of marriage is a major concern of Exodus. Why is this such an important issue, and what are some ways marriage can be protected?

RT: We believe that marriage is a unique institution created by God for the benefit of all mankind. Male and female both reflect God perfectly and uniquely in their own right as distinct genders. When a man and woman come together as one in the Holy covenant of marriage, they bear the Image of God as “one” in a way that neither can do alone. Often this results in the birth of children who then bear the image of both parents and yet are complete individuals in their own right. To purposefully remove Mom or Dad or intentionally reproduce in order to divorce a child from their biological parents is a disservice to an institution that has been the foundation of our great society and other great societies throughout time.

This is not just a problem within the homosexual community; it is also a much bigger problem within the heterosexual community when the institution of marriage is abused by lightly entering into it, dismissing it altogether, or fleeing toward divorce instead of taking responsibility to uphold their wedding vows.

I think we are shown to be hypocrites when we denounce Rosie¹s gay marriage and say nothing about Christian couples divorcing at embarrassing rates for embarrassing reasons. Only being against something doesn¹t work. We must show the beauty and mystery of biblical marriage. It is an amazing gift to be treasured and people do not understand how awesome it was created and intended to be.

DH: What stand does Exodus take on hate crimes legislation? Do you think these types of measures would strengthen or weaken equality under the law?

RT: I’ve always believed that someone leaving a church should have just as much legal protection as someone leaving a gay bar. Laws such as these masquerade under the guise of equality, but in fact open the door to ideological supremacy.

DH: Randy, thanks for your time.

RT: Thank you!

ADF Exposes Problems with ENDA Legislation

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 06 May 2008 18:47:06 GMT

A so-called “anti-discrimination” bill in the Colorado legislature is very similar to the proposed ENDA legislation in the U.S. Congress both of which would award special privileges to homosexuals and transgenders based on their “actual or perceived” sexual behavior. Concerned citizens must be vigilant to oppose this kind of dangerous legislation. The Alliance Defense Fund gave testimony against the bill which is also very relevant to the federal version. Excerpt:

“The government shouldn’t cater to the agenda of political activist groups and then use the strong arm of the law to force it on the public,” said ADF Senior Legal Counsel Austin R. Nimocks. “This law would not protect rights but would grant special privileges based strictly on someone’s sexual behavior. Further, those privileges would have a significant impact on the constitutional rights of Coloradoans who have a moral objection to homosexual behavior.”

“Human Rights Campaign Pushes Special Rights for Transgender Workers”

AdvanceUSA — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 20:33:17 GMT

CitizenLink reports on this troubling sign of things to come.

Discrimination or Sensible Religious Freedoms

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:33:38 GMT

Homosexual activists gathered in our nation’s capital from a few days ago until Tax Day (today) lobbying for what they call “family values.” Their agenda includes supposed anti-discrimination legislation like ENDA (Employment Non-Discrimination Act) and instituting laws which provide what substantively amount to marriage benefits to same-sex couples.

Concerned citizens must be careful to clearly state that we do not hate homosexuals or wish to persecute them, but that we strongly object to creating special rights and privileges based on sexual behavior and we believe that organizations and companies should have the right to deem certain behavior unacceptable for their employees.

If these legislative goals proceed they will likely include some sort of “religious exemptions” which only protect churches and other explicitly religious organizations, but which do not cover individual employers such as private companies and certain non-profits. For example, while a Catholic church might be exempted from being forced to hire or accommodate homosexuals or same-sex couples, a Catholic businessman or leader of a faith-based charity would not be protected. The religious freedoms of individuals should be protected, not just the religious freedom of large organizations.

The bottom line is that sexual behavior should not be given preferential treatment under law under the guise of anti-discrimination. Also, the crucial institution of marriage should not be undermined by offering special marriage benefits to same-sex couples.

ACTION: We do not yet know when Congress will consider such legislation, but we encourage you to contact your representative and both your senators to urge them to oppose ENDA and other attempts to give substantive marriage benefits to same-sex couples.

The Danger of Sexually Based Anti-Discrimination Laws

AdvanceUSA — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 21:37:48 GMT

The Washington Times reported in February on the case of Elaine Huguenin, a Christian photographer in New Mexico, who refused to take pictures of a lesbian civil ceremony. Elaine is being prosecuted under anti-discrimination laws and the Alliance Defense Fund is now coming to her assistance. This case is a chilling reminder of why anti-discrimination laws based on “sexual orientation or gender identity” should be opposed, especially on the federal level (i.e. ENDA). Here’s an excerpt from the Times:

An evangelical Christian photographer was brought before the New Mexico Human Rights Commission after she declined for religious reasons to photograph a same-sex commitment ceremony.

When Elaine Huguenin of Albuquerque, N.M., declined in September 2006 an e-mail request from a lesbian couple to photograph their ceremony, one of the lesbians responded by lodging a human rights complaint with the New Mexico Human Rights Division, the state agency charged with enforcing state anti-discrimination laws and sending cases to the commission to be adjudicated.

LifeSiteNews also reported on this case.

ENDA Update

AdvanceUSA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 21:07:19 GMT

The Wall Street Journal mentions the dangerous Employment Non-Discrimination Act in an article on several anti-business bills that could progress in the current Congress. Another concern with ENDA, besides restrictive government regulation of business, is the threat that non-discrimination laws based on “actual or perceived” sexual preferences could pose to religious freedom.

Excerpt:

…the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, passed the House of Representatives last fall. It would prohibit discrimination on the basis of "sexual orientation." In short, private-sector employers who have religious or other objections to homosexuality would be told their moral views lack legitimacy.

The Bush administration has announced its opposition, noting that the bill raises constitutional problems and "turns on imprecise and subjective terms that would make interpretation, compliance, and enforcement extremely difficult" and is "virtually certain to encourage burdensome litigation." Sen. John McCain is opposed to such legislation; Sens. Obama and Clinton are supporters. Sen. Edward Kennedy is expected to introduce the bill later this year in the Senate.

For more information on ENDA click here.

The Danger of “Hate Crime” and “Non-Discrimination” Laws

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 16:44:52 GMT

CitizenLink has two stories that illustrate the dangers to religious freedom implicit to “hate crimes” and “non-discrimination” laws that pertain to sexual orientation.

· Dangerous legislation could force charities that run soup kitchens and homeless shelters to hire homosexuals

· Teachers in U.K. Told to Avoid Saying 'Mom' and 'Dad'

ENDA Update

AdvanceUSA — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 19:10:07 GMT

AdvanceUSA has learned that ENDA, after having passing the House of Representatives recently, will likely be put on the Senate “calendar” within a week. This means that it could be considered at any time. However, there are about a hundred total bills on the Senate calendar, so it is not certain that the Senate vote on ENDA is imminent. It could even be pushed back to next year.

Be assured AdvanceUSA will keep a watchful eye on this dangerous legislation. For more information on ENDA click here or here.

“An Open Letter to the Christian Community” from Harry R. Jackson, Jr.

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 20:28:14 GMT

Bishop Harry Jackson, Jr. voices his concerns with a number of issues he sees as a threat to religious freedom. Doubtless the ENDA bill and hate crimes legislation are clear and present dangers to free religious expression, and the movement to resurrect the discredited “fairness doctrine” is a blatant affront to free speech. Read Jackson ’s full column here.

For more information on religious freedom click here or here.

ENDA Passed Yesterday in House

AdvanceUSA — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 14:49:40 GMT

Yesterday the House passed ENDA by a vote of 235 - 184. Check the vote box below or on the Congress Vote Watch page to see how your representative voted on this dangerous legislation. An amendment proposed by Rep. George Miller (D-CA) to broaden the religious exemption for churches and other religious institutions passed, but the bill still ignores the threats to the religious freedom of regular employers. Furthermore, the underlying bill sets a dangerous precedent by elevating sexual behavior as a civil rights issue akin to race, religion, or gender. Rep. Roy Blunt (R-MO) had an excellent article Tuesday in Human Events which explains the serious religious freedom and litigation concerns with ENDA. Fortunately, the President has vowed to veto the legislation.

For more information on this threat to religious freedom which is also an open door to wasteful and malicious litigation, check the AdvanceUSA home page or the ENDA category at AdvanceUSA Blog.

House Vote on H.R. 3685, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (Passed)
November 7, 2007
Full Results | News Story

	Yeas	Nays	PRES	NV
Republican	35	159	—	6
Democratic	200	25	—	8
Independent	—	—	—	—
TOTALS	235	184	—	14

ENDA Vote Today

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:21:59 GMT

H.R. 3685, the dangerous Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), will likely be voted on today in the House of Representatives. While liberals may attempt to whitewash it with religious freedom and marriage protections ENDA is still a dangerous step toward special federal protections based on sexual behavior. ENDA is part of the overarching homosexual strategy to undermine traditional marriage and legitimize deviant sexual behavior. For more information on ENDA click here or here.

House Minority Leader Roy Blunt (R-MO) has a very helpful article today in Human Events which explains the serious religious freedom and litigation concerns with ENDA which would be well worth your time to consider. Excerpt:

One thing, however, is certain: Passage of this bill would effectively create a brand new market for litigation, and set up the opportunity for billions of dollars for trial lawyers. Another bill, another Democratic payback to their special interests, more burdens on American small businesses, more attempts to limit religious speech -- well, just another day under this Democratic Congress.

AdvanceUSA will post the vote results of the House vote on ENDA as soon as they become available. Be sure to see how your representative voted on this dangerous bill.

The Homosexual Agenda’s “Roof Down” Strategy

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 21:55:45 GMT

The Washington Blade (homosexual news publication) explains the strategy of the “gay rights” agenda while offering critique to help proponents obtain the ultimate goal of same-sex marriage. The article suggests a “incremental” approach in which marriage and civil unions are not discussed until the public is “ready.”

A suggested plan of attack includes these stages of building in this order:

Hate Crimes
ENDA
Repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”
Permanent Partners Immigration Act
Civil Unions
Repeal Defense of Marriage Act and Overturn State Marriage Amendments

Click here to read the full explanation.

Another Black Leader of Faith Speaks Out Against ENDA

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 21:52:53 GMT

Star Parker has an excellent column explaining the problems with the dangerous ENDA legislation and exposes the hypocrisy of many radical homosexual organizations. Excerpt:

We've got legislation moving through Congress, pushed by gay activists, that would make it illegal for an employer to not hire, or to fire, someone because of their sexual orientation. But the head of the nation's largest gay-activist organization asks Obama to fire a man because he is a Christian and an advocate of traditional values?

For more information on ENDA click here or here.

“Foster Child Taken Away Because Christian Couple Refuse to Teach Him About Homosexuality”

AdvanceUSA — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 21:05:30 GMT

The Daily Mail reports on this outrageous case. This is an example of what can result from laws dictating “tolerance” and “non-discrimination” towards homosexuals. Congress would do well to consider cases like this when they vote next week on the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (H.R. 3685).

ENDA Vote Delayed, President Bush Issues Veto Threat

AdvanceUSA — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 13:35:00 GMT

A gay publication is reporting that the dangerous ENDA bill has been postponed until next week so members can be polled to see if an amendment including “transgendered” individuals in the legislation would pass.

Also, President Bush issued a veto threat for ENDA (H.R. 3685) in a statement of administration policy issued today. AdvanceUSA applauds the President’s bold leadership in opposing this legislation.

For more information on ENDA click here or here.

Black Pastor Strongly Opposes ENDA

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 21:51:12 GMT

Bishop Harry R. Jackson, Jr., (Chairman of the High Impact Leadership Coalition and author) has written an article criticizing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) because it endangers families and is an insult to the real civil rights movement. First he draws a distinction between this attempt to mandate privileges based on sexual preference and the civil rights movement seeking to prevent racial discrimination. Then he gives five reasons to oppose ENDA. Click here to read the entire article or see below to read Jackson ’s five reasons to oppose ENDA.

1. ENDA would overturn the historical basis of protected class status by adding “actual or perceived sexual orientation.” While every other federally-protected class embodies three standards: an obvious, immutable characteristic; a history of discrimination evidenced by economic disenfranchisement; and political powerlessness, “sexual orientation” falls under none of these criteria. It is an insult to African Americans to grant special protections for “sexual orientation.”

2. ENDA expands civil rights protections on the vague basis of perception. An employee or potential employee could sue an employer for his or her perception of their sexual orientation. Yet unlike the currently-protected classes of race, age, and gender in employment, sexual orientation is not scientifically verifiable. It is an offense to African Americans to equate “sexual orientation” with skin color.

3. ENDA infringes on the religious liberties of our parishioners. As shepherds of our flock, we cannot stand by while our parishioners are forced to ignore their convictions when they leave church on Sunday. ENDA requires people of faith to lay down their religious freedom at the office door. This opposes our beliefs and it is not practical – faith cannot be segmented into only one part our lives.

4. ENDA puts the integrity of our ministries in jeopardy. Many African-American churches run outreach ministries separate from the church to care for our communities. My local church runs a daycare which cares for over 200 children daily and the potential to serve another 100+ children in extended care for those who are in school. ENDA provides unclear protection for schools, while leaving ministries such as childcare, after school programs, and food and clothing banks vulnerable to ENDA mandates.

5. ENDA is a direct attack on our freedom of religion guaranteed in the First Amendment. The Free Exercise Clause in the First Amendment grants all Americans the freedom to practice their faith. ENDA stands in direct opposition to this liberty and must be rejected as a result.

ENDA Moves Out of Committee

AdvanceUSA — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 01:31:55 GMT

The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (H.R. 3685) was favorably reported out of the House Education & Labor committee by a vote of 27 – 21. Four amendments were offered to the legislation in order to highlight the severe danger it poses to religious liberty and to illustrate the litigation nightmare that would ensue if enacted into law.

ENDA will be voted on soon (most likely early next week) so keep calling your representative and urging him or her to vote “No” on ENDA (H.R. 3685)! Also, an amendment will most likely be offered on the House floor which would add “transgender” people (cross dressers, sex-change recipients, etc.) to the special privileges and regulations established by this law.

Continue reading for more information on the amendments offered and some of the statements made during committee markup today.

Rep. Souder (R-IN) proposed three amendments:

The first attempted to strike the word “perceived” from the legislation as prosecuting employer discrimination based on “perception” would pose a litigation nightmare. The amendment was rejected by a vote of 18 - 30.
The second attempted to protect the rights of employers to require potential employees to be married in order to be accepted for certain jobs. Group homes, some of which require house parents to be married couples, and Christian bookstores (who do not receive protection under the religious freedom exemption) would be unable to use marital status as a requirement for employment otherwise. The amendment also highlighted the threat to non-denominational para-church organization’s ability to have and enforce sexual behavior guidelines based on religious conviction. This amendment also was rejected by a vote of 18 - 30.
The third attempted to protect employees with strong religious convictions against homosexuality (or other preferences) from being discriminated against for refusing to participate in activities (like certain sensitivity training or “gay pride” events) that violate their beliefs. This amendment failed by a vote of 19 - 29.

Rep. Hoekstra (R-MI) proposed one amendment seeking to exempt Christian schools (pre-school to university level) from being forced to hire employees who do not hold to their standards for sexual morality. Rep. Walberg (R-MI) submitted for the record letters from Christians colleges concerned that ENDA would endanger their “mission” which is partially religious in nature. Rep. Hoekstra voiced his concerns with ENDA by saying “the more I hear, the more I’m disturbed” and concluding that the legislation was a direct “attack on faith-based institutions.” The Hoekstra amendment failed by a vote of 21 – 27.

Several representatives in attendance defended ENDA, but liberal members promised to vote against the bill unless it were amended to include “transgendered” individuals.

Expect a vote on this dangerous ENDA legislation (H.R. 3685) early next week.

ENDA Update

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 20:46:39 GMT

ENDA is scheduled to be marked up in committee on Thursday, October 18. CitizenLink reports that a House vote on ENDA could be just around the corner.

Please call your representative TODAY and urge him/her to vote "No" on ENDA! For more information on ENDA check the AdvanceUSA home page or the ENDA category here at AdvanceUSA Blog.

“Check Your Faith at the Door:” Chuck Colson on ENDA

AdvanceUSA — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 21:29:15 GMT

Chuck Colson paints an alarming but accurate picture of what could happen in America if the dangerous ENDA bill becomes law in his column at Townhall.

Excerpt:

Imagine you own a small business—let’s say a donut shop—and you have an employee who is late for work everyday and is rude to customers. When you fire him, he claims it is really because he is gay—and sues.

Or imagine you run a daycare center in your church basement. One day a homosexual applies for a job. When you turn him down, he says you broke the law.

Today, both of these stories are simply scenarios. But by the end of the week, they could be reality.

For more information on ENDA check the material on the AdvanceUSA home page or the other blog posts in the “ENDA” category.

ENDA Update

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:57:45 GMT

The latest version of ENDA no longer includes “gender identity” as a protected class and contains a broader exception for religious institutions. However, the legislation still recognizes “real or perceived sexual orientation” as a protected class and adds a two-part test that religious organizations must pass in order to have their beliefs on sexual morality protected. Furthermore, the legislation still burdens businesses with unnecessary regulation which could cause a litigious nightmare and harm work force morale. The committee markup originally scheduled for today has been postponed. AdvanceUSA will continue monitoring the situation closely.

UPDATE: Fox News reports on the delay in ENDA legislation due to concerns over “transgender” protections. The article includes quotes from liberal LGBT activists.

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“Get the ACLU Out of Our Bathrooms”: Workplace Problems Will Worsen if ENDA Passes

AdvanceUSA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:46:43 GMT

Terence Jeffrey’s article at TownHall is a startling reminder of what could happen if Congress passes the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). He explains the case of a male bus driver in Utah who decided he wanted to use women’s public restrooms while undergoing hormone treatments to supposedly “change his sex.” He sued his employer after they refused to allow his behavior, and the 10^th Circuit Court upheld the decision of the employer to forbid his use of women’s restrooms. CitizenLink comments on this case and clearly explains how ENDA could cause such cases to multiply across the country and would likely force employers everywhere to comply with such outrageous demands.

For more information on ENDA click here.

“ENDA: Workplace is the Wrong Place for Sexual Politics”

AdvanceUSA — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:21:38 GMT

This CitizenLink article powerfully explains some of the practical problems with the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) which makes “actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity” a privileged legal status (on the same legal footing as race or religion) in employment matters.

For more information on ENDA check the AdvanceUSA home page or past blog posts in this category.

Why the Business Community Should Oppose ENDA

AdvanceUSA — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 22:00:57 GMT

CitizenLink link reports in this news article about why American business owners should oppose the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) which slaps them with more government regulation and establishes legal privileges based on sexual behavior. Focus on the Family has also released this helpful document which gives real-world accounts of how laws similar to ENDA have led to serious problems for businesses.

UPDATE: This LA Times piece (even though it attempts to paint a sympathetic picture) offers a startling glimpse of some of the difficulties and dangers (especially for small businesses) that will arise from legislation like ENDA which creates special privileges for sexual behavior including transgender issues (cross dressing, sex-change operations).

VIDEO: What’s the Deal with ENDA?

AdvanceUSA — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 19:07:41 GMT

This informative and very creative video by CitizenLink explains the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (H.R. 2015) and shows why ENDA is a threat to religious freedom and patently absurd.

ENDA Update: Congressional Hearings Held

AdvanceUSA — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 20:12:09 GMT

On September 5 hearings were held in the House Education and Labor Committee on ENDA. The hearings were rather one-sided as 6 witnesses and 3 Representatives supported the bill, one witness merely expressed concerns with the legislation, and only one witness opposed ENDA. For transcripts of witness’s testimony from the hearings click here.

For more information on this dangerous assult on religious freedom and simple fairness check our ENDA blurb on the AdvanceUSA home page.

ENDA: Granting Special Status Based on Sexual Deviancy

AdvanceUSA — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 18:26:31 GMT

The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), introduced in April and scheduled for a hearing on September 5, would create new privileged classes under the guise of prohibiting employment discrimination based on "sexual orientation” and “gender identity.” Far from guaranteeing constitutional rights to a discriminated race or gender, this bill would grant special privileges to those who participate in homosexual activity and heap more intrusive regulations on businesses and organizations, including some religious organizations.

There are a number of serious problems with ENDA. Many employers who have religious objections to hiring homosexuals or transgenders would be prohibited from refusing to hire such a person based on those beliefs. Furthermore, many who have suffered real discrimination based on immutable characteristics such as race or gender, see adding sexual orientation as a protected class as an insult to what they suffered and achieved in the civil rights movement. Finally, if passed, ENDA could help make gay marriage and civil union legislation all the more likely.

Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA), one of the most liberal members of Congress, has introduced the bill in the House (H.R. 2015), and it is now in several House committees. With heavy support from labor unions a similar bill will surely be proposed in the Senate so concerned citizens should be watchful. While churches are exempt from ENDA, other religious organizations are not, resulting in serious assaults to freedom of religion. Call your representative today and urge him or her to vote “No” on H.R. 2015, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA)!