Because of objections to the newly-passed religious objections law in Indiana, which some believe could lead to discrimination, the Minneapolis Fire Department has canceled plans for some staff members to attend a conference in Indianapolis later this month.
Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges says she asked the fire department to cancel the trip because the state’s Religious Freedom Restoration Act could lead to discrimination against LGBT people.
Fire Chief John Fruetel agreed and canceled the trip, the mayor’s office said.
Hodges also is asking the city council to approve a policy prohibiting use of city funds for travel to Indiana.
Said Hodges in a statement:
“Minneapolis is a welcoming, inclusive city that respects and values the contributions and the safety of everyone who lives, works, and visits here, and the City of Minneapolis as an employer respects and values the same in our employees. I cannot in good conscience support any official travel to Indiana in light of its enacting a law that makes discrimination legal, particularly against LGBT people.
“…Until the Governor and the Legislature repeal the law, enact protections for LGBT people, or both, I don’t think we should betray Minneapolis residents’ values by spending public dollars in Indiana, or put Minneapolis public employees at risk there.”
Hear! hear!
Here’s a an even better idea. Zero out the travel budget entirely and use WebEx instead.
Be careful what you ask for
The attitude of many seems to be “Well if you don’t like their attitude, don’t shop there!” I wonder how they’ll react to the Minneapolis Fire Department following this excellent advice.