And the Award for Outstanding Achievement in Civil Rights …

may go to … the House of Representatives (and I hope later the Senate), who on Wednesday approved the Employment Nondiscrimination Act protecting gays, lesbians and bisexuals from discrimination in the workplace. In a New York Times article, Representative Kathy Castor, a Florida Democrat, is quoted as saying, “On this proud day of the 110th Congress, we will chart a new direction for civil rights.” The article also reports that President Bush has already threatened a veto and that opponents say it would result in unnecessary lawsuits. Notable exclusions in the bill: transgender and transsexual individuals. But apparently, this was a purposeful exclusion aimed at garnering more support for the bill. Nancy Pelosi said, “History teaches us that progress on civil rights is never easy. It is often marked by small and difficult steps.”

A statement from the National Black Justice Coalition expresses disappointment that sexual identity was not included in the House version of the bill, but applauded efforts on behalf of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, the NAACP and Members of Congress who worked to pass the most inclusive bill possible.

Sure it’s 2007 and all man(kind) was declared equal July 4, 1776, still we resign ourselves to applaud “the most inclusive bill possible.” That said, I am particularly grateful the NAACP took a firm stance on the matter. On the association’s website it is reported that:

“It is currently legal in 38 states to fire or otherwise discriminate against someone solely because they are perceived to be gay or lesbian… the NAACP opposes discrimination of any individual based on who they are… ENDA is a fair and balanced approach to ensure that all Americans are given the opportunity to meet their fullest potential in the workplace.”

It is certainly my dream that more colored persons better understand the commonalities of the first Civil Rights struggle and the ongoing efforts to honor, respect and treat fairly every human being. The methods, violence and blatant mechanisms of hate and separation our ancestors endured were, and in many instances remain, abhorrent. However, and at least in principle, there is little difference in “for white only” signs being placed on amenities, education and government services in the past and the implicit placement of “for heterosexuals only” signs being placed on marriage/property/ employment rights and basic human dignity.

(image via gettyimages)