Cites moral, economic reasons

$WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representative Jim Himes (CT-4), joined by Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy and Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-3), John Larson (CT-1), Joe Courtney (CT-2) and Elizabeth Esty (CT-5), sent a letter to Governor Dan Malloy, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff and Speaker of the House Brendan Sharkey thanking them for their actions in support of the LGBT community in Connecticut.

After North Carolina and Mississippi recently passed laws allowing for legal discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals, the sharp divide between states that are welcoming and inclusive toward LGBT individuals and those that are codifying discrimination has never been clearer.

“By enacting laws that openly discriminate against our fellow citizens because of their gender identity or sexual orientation, the leaders of these states are violating the fundamental principles of equality and justice upon which our country is based,” the delegation wrote to the state leaders.  “Connecticut has chosen a different path, and we are grateful for the role you have played in making our state more welcoming and more diverse.”

In addition to the moral and legal arguments in opposition to discrimination, the letter also highlights the economic drawbacks of these policies. North Carolina has already seen PayPal cancel a $3.6 million investment in the state, and high profile musical acts such as Bruce Springsteen and Pearl Jam are canceling concerts because of the new law.

“In today’s very competitive global economy, workers and businesses are abandoning states with discriminatory laws and are choosing to do business with companies in states that promote equality,” the letter continues.  “In Connecticut, we are proud to be the home of world-class companies and a skilled and diverse workforce. Our commitment to equality and diversity makes us an even more appealing environment in which to live, work and raise a family.”