Tennessee has been ranked 46th in the nation for LGBTQ equality in a recent report by Out Leadership. The state’s low ranking is attributed to anti-LGBTQ legislation that has been passing through the General Assembly. The legislation has led to some members of the LGBTQ community leaving the state, while others have chosen to stay and fight against the discriminatory laws.
The report scored states based on various categories, including political and religious attitudes, health access and safety, work environment and employment, youth and family support, and legal and nondiscrimination protections. Tennessee’s equality score declined this year due to the increase in anti-LGBTQ legislation.
While some anti-LGBTQ bills were defeated in the past session, many still passed, including a law that removed specific anti-discrimination language in the state’s code of ethics for educators. Tennessee Equality Project’s executive director, Chris Sanders, has been advocating against these laws and highlighting the negative impact they have not only on the LGBTQ community but also on the state as a whole.
Despite the challenges, Sanders remains committed to fighting for LGBTQ rights and raising awareness about the harmful effects of anti-LGBTQ legislation. He emphasizes that these laws not only hurt the LGBTQ community but also have broader ramifications, such as hindering industry recruitment in the state. As Tennessee continues to grapple with LGBTQ inequality, advocates like Sanders are working tirelessly to promote inclusivity and equality for all.
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