HR 4.7 HELPING LOCALS OPPOSE DISCRIMINATION BASED ON SEXUAL ORIENTATION

WHEREAS, the American Federation of Teachers has been on record in opposition to discrimination based on sexual orientation in resolutions dating from 1970, 1977, 1979, 1988, 1990, 1992 and 1994, and

WHEREAS, AFT has urged locals and state federations to incorporate into their constitutions and by-laws provisions banning discrimination against union members based on sexual orientation; and

WHEREAS, AFT has urged locals and state federations to negotiate provisions in their collective bargaining contracts prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation; and

WHEREAS, organized political forces continue to advocate discrimination against lesbians, gay men and bisexuals across the country, leading to an increase in harassment and discriminatory laws:

RESOLVED, that the American Federation of Teachers reaffirm its past opposition to discrimination based on sexual orientation, as well as discrimination based on race, creed, religion, ethnic or national origin, age or gender; and

RESOLVED, that the American Federation of Teachers urge its locals to work diligently to eliminate discrimination and/or harassment based on sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation from unions, schools and other workplaces; and

RESOLVED, that the American Federation of Teachers offer assistance to locals and state federations, where needed, in reviewing and revising their constitutions and internal policies to eliminate such discrimination; and

RESOLVED, that the American Federation of Teachers offer assistance to locals and state federations, where needed, in drafting, negotiating and implementing contract provisions or, where collective bargaining has not yet been attained, advocating employment policies that prohibit such discrimination.

(Executive Council)