In the coming weeks, the Supreme Court will release their ruling on 303 Creative v. Elenis, a case that could have a significant impact on anti-discrimination laws across the country, including protections for LGBTQ+ Americans. You can learn more in-depth about the case here.
The case revolves around a web designer who is seeking a free speech exemption that would allow her to refuse to sell wedding websites to same-sex couples, despite no actual LGBTQ+ clients seeking this service from her. The designer’s defense is that her business involves creative “expression,” which she believes should entitle her to an exemption under the First Amendment.
However, denying service to someone on the basis of sexual orientation is discriminatory conduct, not speech, and a ruling that states otherwise could put ALL nondiscrimination protections in jeopardy.
It is now more important than ever that LGBTQ+ supportive businesses affirm their support for nondiscrimination protections in their cities, states and beyond. Here are some ways you can take action today:
- Use this social media toolkit to show your support for LGBTQ+ nondiscrimination protections on your company’s social media ahead of the ruling. This toolkit is courtesy of GLAD, the National Center for Lesbian Rights, Lambda Legal, the HRC and Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund.
- Make the economic case for LGBTQ+ nondiscrimination laws within your community and talk to your connections about joining Nebraska Competes, our business coalition dedicated to achieving nondiscrimination protections at the state and local level in order to retain and cultivate the best talent in Nebraska.
- Stay tuned to the Nebraska Competes social media in the coming weeks for updates on this case. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
