HRC and Straight Political Allies
In the struggle for GLBT equality, there are more than just GLBT people involved. When HRC works on legislation, it understands the importance of building coalitions with other civil rights and advocacy groups. These groups may not exclusively focus on GLBT issues but find them inherently part of their civil rights efforts. For example, the list of organizations supporting the anti-hate crime Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act includes the American Nurses Association, the Chinese American Citizens Alliance and the Episcopal Church.
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act lists the AFL-CIO, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People among those who actively endorse the bill.
When Rep. Steve Largent, R-Okla tried to block gay couples from jointly adopting children in the District of Columbia, HRC worked with the Child Welfare League of America, the Children’s Defense Fund and others to ensure the defeat of his amendment.
The impact of allies on elected officials is crucial. We are well aware of the power of a personal story, whether it is told through a letter or personal visit. Elected officials need to hear the voices of their heterosexual constituents who support GLBT-related legislation such as workplace protections and hate crime legislation. Former congressman Steve Gunderson, an openly gay Republican who represented Wisconsin, stresses the value in our straight allies communicating with elected officials about good public policy for GLBT people:
"…when something like ENDA [the Employment Non-Discrimination Act] or hate crimes comes up in Congress that they (straight allies) literally could be sending a letter to a member of Congress and senator, because it is good public policy and in support of their loved one. They are going to be far more effective than I would because I'm going to be perceived as advocating for my self-interest." Conversations with Betty
Straight allies are also invaluable during campaign season when GLBT-friendly candidates need all the help they can get in their quest for victory.