From: Ellen McCormick Date: Fri, 10 Oct 1997 19:40:40 Subject: CA: GOVERNOR VETOES AB 257 October 10, 1997 For Immediate Release Contact: Ellen McCormick, Legislative Advocate LIFE: California's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and HIV/AIDS Lobby (916) 444-0424 GOVERNOR VETOES GAY/LESBIAN/BISEXUAL CIVIL RIGHTS BILL Sacramento - In an anticipated move late Friday, Governor Wilson vetoed AB 257, by Assembly Majority Leader Antonio R. Villaraigosa (D-Los Angeles), the measure to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation under California's Fair Employment and Housing Act. "Today is a very sad day for California's lesbian, bisexual and gay community. Today our Governor has said that we are not as important - that the discrimination we face is not worth protecting the same as discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, ethnicity, nation of origin or disability," said Ellen McCormick, Legislative Advocate for LIFE Lobby. "This is the second time this measure has been before Governor Wilson, and the second time he has vetoed it." "This is clear presidential posturing," said Laurie McBride, LIFE's Executive Director. "Wilson is pandering to the right wing votes he thinks he needs for a Republican primary. This is a Governor who claims to be against discrimination and in favor of strong law enforcement - but when he had a chance to protect some of the most vulnerable members of society he failed to pass the test. Unfortunately, the people who will suffer will be the most in need - gay, lesbian, and bisexual women and people of color. All are a part of this diverse group we collectively call the 'gay' community, all of whom would have been helped greatly by AB 257." McCormick finished, "last week LIFE Lobby hand delivered over 6,000 letters to the Governor in support of AB 257, one wonders if the Governor gives any weight to the people who are affected by the laws of this state. This bill will be introduced over and over again until we have a Governor that listens to the people." ### In protest of the veto of AB 257, LIFE Lobby WANTS YOU to register to vote (or re-register as a symbolic gesture) and mail your stub to Governor Wilson with an appropriate note. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- This message has been brought to you by LIFE: California's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and HIV/AIDS Lobby. LIFE has been lobbying on behalf of California's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and HIV-affected communities since 1986. LIFE is the oldest and largest institution representing these communities in California's State Capitol and is proud to celebrate over a decade of service. If you would like further information about LIFE activities, events or membership please contact our office at: LIFE: California's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and HIV/AIDS Lobby 1301 H Street Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 444-0424 fax (916) 444-3059