Largest Gay Chamber of Commerce in US Denounces Microsoft Inaction on Discrimination
Greater Seattle Business Association shares perspective, invites company to talks
Seattle, WA (PRWEB) April 29, 2005 -- The Greater Seattle Business Association (GSBA) spoke out today against Microsofts change to a neutral stance on legislation which would have banned discrimination against homosexuals throughout Washington State in housing, employment and insurance. The bill failed by one vote.
We feel betrayed by an organization we have all looked to as a leader for inclusiveness, one which promotes the best and brightest in our community, regardless of what marginalized group they are from," GSBA Executive Director Louise Chernin said, Were hoping a dialogue with Microsoft will help us reach an understanding that coming out against discrimination is the right thing to do, and, in the end, the right business decision. When we exclude any part of our population, we lose out on the breadth of creativity that exists."
GSBAs letter pointed out to Microsoft, while the company incorporates non-discrimination practices, a group of its employees still remain vulnerable to such adversity once they leave the company at the end of a work day.
The letter specifically states, GSBA challenges Microsoft to once again take an active role as the world class leader it claims to be ... Microsoft should reinstate active support for this bill at present as well as when it returns to the Legislature. It is simply the right thing to do for Microsofts employees, its business and the greater community ..."
To view the letter in its entirety online, go to www.thegsba.org/docs/GSBA_MicrosoftLetter_042805.pdf
GSBA is the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) and allied business chamber in the United States. GSBAs mission: Combining business development and social action to expand economic opportunities for our members, the LGBT community and those who support us." Since 1981, GSBA has been proudly serving the LGBT and Allied business community.
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[Alternate press contact: GSBA Board President John Wong 425-330-6871
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