Case Shows Faith-Based Programs' Inherent Homophobia
by Scott Stiffler
EDGE Contributor
Tuesday Aug 12, 2008
http://www.edgeboston.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=glbt&sc2=news&sc3=&id=78786Alicia Pedreira had no legal recourse when she was fired in 1998 from the Kentucky Baptist Homes For Children. It was a job that her taxes partially funded, but that didn't matter: Only Covington, Lexington and Louisville counties shield employees from discrimination based on sexual orientation. Pedreira worked in Bullock county.
The case of Pedreira, an out-lesbian employee, is proving that the faith-based initiatives endorsed by President George Bush--and, more importantly, by both candidates to take his place--is a potential minefield for LGBT employees and contractors.
As McCain and Obama boldly proclaim their support for religious organizations that provide social services, the issue of faith-based initiatives has returned to the forefront of election and human rights issues.
