Consumers Target Anti-family Business: Transgender

Retail giant Target Corporation has positioned itself in the middle of the Culture War by paying homage to the Gay/transgender Agenda in announcing that men are welcome in women's restrooms and fitting rooms in all stores.  With the possibility of millions of customers vowing to boycott Target, the corporation faces a decision: Whom to serve?

Customers say:

“Why do you insist on overly accommodating a group that is so small and forgetting the rest of us?”

“I’m not shopping at Target anymore. I’ll give another store my business that doesn’t allow men in women’s restrooms.”

“Can’t take my kids to Target anymore.”

For background, read how enclosed restrooms will soon be eliminated to protect women and children from sexual predators.

Click headlines below to read previous articles:

Washington, D.C.'s Bathroom 'Bigot Snitch' Law

Virginia Bathroom Privacy Bill Defeated in Legislature

Women's Voices Silenced: Washington Transgender Restrooms

President Obama's OSHA Teams Up with EEOC to OK Perverts in Employees' Restrooms

Transgender Restrooms Evolve for South Dakota Schools

Transgenderism Taught to Kindergartners Across America





-- From "‘A danger to wives and daughters’: Petition to boycott Target over transgender-inclusive bathrooms claims growing support" by Travis M. Andrews, Washington Post 4/26/16

An online petition by the American Family Association calling for a boycott of Target reached more than 650,000 signatures early Tuesday morning and was growing by the minute. It was created in response to a statement on Target’s website last Tuesday stating that individuals could use the retail giant’s bathrooms and fitting rooms that correspond with their gender identities.

[The petition] also suggests that the retail chain should include a “unisex bathroom” for “transgendered customers.”

The Southern Poverty Law Center has labeled the AFA as an “extremist organization” and labels its ideology as “Anti-LGBT.”

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "More than 500,000 boycott Target over transgender bathroom policy" by Hadley Malcolm, USA TODAY 4/26/16

The petition started by the American Family Association on Wednesday raises concerns that Target's inclusive stance on transgender rights encourages sexual predators and puts women and young girls in danger, because "a man can simply say he 'feels like a woman today' and enter the women's restroom."

"This is the best response we’ve ever had this quick," says AFA President Tim Wildmon, attributing the protest's viral nature to the fact that "everybody knows who Target is, and it’s an easy-to-understand issue."

Wildmon says Target stands "to lose a lot of customers who won't come back." But Target is standing by its policy.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "More than 660,000 sign petition to boycott Target" posted at WTVD-TV11 (Raleigh-Durham, NC) 4/26/16

On AFA's website, President Tim Wildmon said the boycott has resonated with consumers.

"Target's harmful policy poses a danger to women and children. Predators and voyeurs would take advantage of the policy to prey on those who are vulnerable. It's clear now that many customers agree. Target shoppers are leaving their allegiance to the store behind - and by the thousands every hour. No store can withstand that sort of loss."

"We want to make it very clear that AFA does not believe the transgender community poses this danger to the wider public," Wildmon writes. "Rather, this misguided and reckless policy provides a possible gateway for predators who are out there."

Last year, Target announced it was moving away from gender-specific signs in its stores. For example, removing the use of pink or blue to guide parents in the children's sections.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Transgender Restrooms and Fitting Rooms? 162,000 Sign 'Boycott Target Pledge' in 1 Day" by Melanie Hunter, CNSNews.com 4/22/16

“Corporate America must stop bullying people who disagree with the radical left agenda to remake society into their progressive image,” AFA President Tim Wildmon said in a statement. “#BoycottTarget has resonated with Americans.

Wildmon said Target should find a “unisex compromise” to its current policy of allowing people to use bathrooms and changing facilities according to gender identity.

“A boycott, and customers leaving the store in droves, will cost even more,” Wildmon said. “If Target is truly committed to a solid policy that’s good for business—for everyone—and if they’re truly committed to the transgender community, the company will spend the money for a unisex compromise. Anything else smacks of an agenda-driven publicity stunt that stands in complete disregard for people who reject the policy.”

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

Also read Transgenderism is a 'Delusion' According to Victims and Professionals

NFL, Businesses Declare War on Georgia Christians

The Georgia legislature has passed a very weak, watered-down version of a religious freedom bill (RFRA) but the former Democrat, now Republican Governor Nathan Deal may veto the bill as every sexual revolutionary force available is threatening to cripple the state economically if Christians are allowed to live as their faith dictates.

“If the governor did make the decision to veto the bill, that most definitely does not end the debate.  The faith community is not just going to say, ‘Oh well. He vetoed the bill. Let’s pack up and go home.’ It becomes more intense in 2017.”
-- State Senator Josh McKoon

For background, read Homosexualists Launch Commerce Attack on Indiana to get Gay Rights

In fact, last year homosexualists forced Indiana Republicans to jettison their religious liberty law and also read how the weak Arkansas Religious Freedom Law was deemed not gay enough by the homosexualists.

The fact is:  Religious Liberty is in the Homosexualists' Crosshairs

Also read Women's Voices Silenced: Washington State Transgender Restrooms



-- From "Georgia legislature passes controversial religious freedom bill" by Matthew Santiago, JURIST 3/18/16

The Georgia state legislature on Thursday approved a bill to allow faith-based establishments, including churches, schools and other organizations, to refuse service or employment to same-sex couples based on their religious beliefs. While groups such as the Georgia Baptist Mission Board see the bill as a First Amendment victory, opponents argue that the bill promotes discrimination against the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. Currently more than 400 businesses, including large corporations such as Microsoft and Virgin Atlantic, stand against the bill and could threaten Georgia's status as a leading business state.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "NFL: Atlanta’s chance of landing Super Bowl could be in jeopardy over Georgia bill" by Carla Caldwell, Morning Edition Editor, Atlanta Business Chronicle 3/22/16

The National Football League says Atlanta's chance of landing a Super Bowl could be in jeopardy if Gov. Nathan Deal does not veto the controversial religious freedom bill, which was approved last week by Georgia lawmakers.

The NFL released a statement last week that said the NFL emphasizes tolerance and inclusiveness and prohibits discrimination.

Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank responded with a [similar] statement.

The Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks and Metro Atlanta Chamber also released statements that address HB 757.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "CEOs oppose Ga. push to let faith-based groups refuse certain services" by Jena McGregor, Washington Post 3/18/16

. . . The bill, which has undergone several changes, says faith-based organizations can refuse to provide certain services to those who violate their "sincerely held religious belief." It also says faith-based groups could not be forced to hire or retain employees whose beliefs are contrary to their own and that the government must prove a "compelling governmental interest" before it interferes with a person's exercise of religion.

Business leaders and major corporations urging Gov. Deal to veto it, threatening to pull business from the state, or criticizing it as out of step with the times. This time, they include both high-profile leaders sounding off on Twitter, as well as large coordinated groups of businesses that have formed in opposition to the bill.

Salesforce.com CEO Marc Benioff, who was active in the fight against similar legislation in Indiana a year ago, has been among the most vocal . . .

. . . Apple issued a statement saying “our stores and our company are open to everyone, regardless of where they come from, what they look like, how they worship or who they love. We urge Gov. Deal to veto the discriminatory legislation headed to his desk and send a clear message that Georgia’s future is one of inclusion, diversity and continued prosperity."

. . . Unilever CEO Paul Polman tweeted that he fully supports Benioff . . .

Meanwhile, the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce has spoken out against the bill . . .

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Business to Play Key Role as Georgia Weighs Bill on Religion and Gay Rights" by Alan Blinder, New York Times 3/22/16

The bill, which lawmakers approved on Wednesday, now faces the scrutiny of Gov. Nathan Deal, a Republican. But it is clear that companies and sports organizations, including Apple, Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines and the National Football League, will have a significant effect on public debate and the governor’s decision to sign or veto the measure.

Supporters of the bill, which Georgia lawmakers named the Free Exercise Protection Act, say it is a bulwark against pressure for people of many religious faiths to endorse, or at least accept, same-sex marriage.

Georgia Prospers, a coalition of corporations based in Georgia or with deep ties to the state, said more than 480 companies agreed that the bill “could harm our ability to create and keep jobs that Georgia families depend upon.”

Corporate opposition, strategists said, will be central to the efforts to defeat the bill with Mr. Deal, who is known for his careful cultivation of the business community. Supporters of the law said corporate involvement would be meddling.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Georgia Guts Religious Freedom Bill" by Ryan T. Anderson, posted at The Daily Signal 3/18/16

The new version of the bill [that passed] provides Religious Freedom Restoration Act levels of protection for certain protected persons, but it explicitly says these protections cannot apply in cases of “invidious discrimination.” Of course, no one is in favor of invidious discrimination, but the problem is that in the hands of a liberal judge, everything looks like invidious discrimination even when it is not, such as religious universities or adoption agencies that want their policies to reflect their teachings on marriage. This apes the bad “fix” that gutted the Indiana religious freedom bill.

What this “fix” means in practice is that if a new or existing law creating special legal privileges based on sexual orientation and gender identity conflicts with a sincere religious belief, the Georgia religious freedom bill may provide no protection—not even the standard balancing test that is the hallmark of religious freedom restoration acts. So in an area where we most need religious liberty protection, the new Georgia law goes out of its way to disclaim it.

. . . the new Georgia bill provides no protection for bakers or florists or other similar wedding professionals who cannot help celebrate a same-sex wedding. While it does provide protections for priests and pastors not to have to perform same-sex weddings and for everyone not to attend them, the U.S. Constitution already provides such protections. So the bill doesn’t protect those who most need it, but it protects those who already have it.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

Click headlines below to read previous articles:

Missouri Christians' Likely Big Win vs. Gay Agenda (RFRA)

West Virginia Legislature Passes Religious Freedom Restoration Act

Christian Lawmakers, Gov. Overturn Charlotte, NC Gay/Transgender Agenda Ordinance

'Gay Marriage' Battle NOT Over in Some States

Citizens Reject Obama's Homosexual Ambassador

The people of the Caribbean nation of the Dominican Republic are demanding that President Obama recall U.S. Ambassador James "Wally" Brewster because, after two years, they're fed up with the diplomat's Gay Agenda, including his new homosexual Chamber of Commerce.  Subsequent to his recent visit to a local school with his "husband" Bob Satawake, Dominican teachers raised calls to bar him from access to children.

“I believe that one of my duties as ambassador is to help advance the tolerance of and respect for marginalized groups and an appreciation for diversity. I try to accomplish this through our U.S. Embassy programs and through my own personal example.”
-- James "Wally" Brewster

“We will not tolerate bigotry against Amb. Brewster or any of our reps. Overseas [and] will cont[inue] to promote universal human rights globally.”
-- Susan Rice, President Obama's National Security Advisor

For background, read African Leaders Reject President Obama's Gay Agenda, to his Face but Obama tells Uganda to Accept Gay Agenda or Risk Losing Money

Also read Kenyans Tell President Obama to Shut Up about the Gay Agenda and Go Home!

And read President Obama Pushes United Nations to Back Gay Agenda

-- From "Dominican churches head push to recall gay US envoy" posted at Dominican Today 3/9/16

Santiago evangelical representatives on Tuesday joined the Dominican Evangelical Unity Council’s (Codue) recent demand to declare US ambassador James W. Brewster "persona non grata," while a request for his recall was opened in the White House website yesterday.

They said the diplomatic seeks to promote same sex relationships, a position also recently voiced by Catholic Church archbishop Victor Masalles.

"Because of that and many humiliations to our homeland, we ask the Government, which is responsible for complying with and enforcing Dominican Republic’s laws and the Constitution, to expel and declare the US diplomat persona non grata," said Cibao Pastors Federation president, reverend Osvaldo Torres.

Torres said Brewster violates Article 55 of the Constitution, which stipulates that the family is a union between a man and a woman, and norms of behavior of the ambassadors, according to the Vienna Convention.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Gay US envoy’s visit to Dominican schoolkids sparks backlash" posted at Dominican Today 3/9/16

Dominican Teachers Association (ADP) president Eduardo Hidalgo on Wednesday asked the Education Ministry to bar US ambassador James W. Brewster and HIS husband Bob J. Satawake from visiting public or private schools.

He said the diplomat has every right to his sexual preference, but in a school, it’s the rights of the children that should be protected.

"The Ambassador of the United States, as they say in the Dominican Republic, went too far, and must respect the Dominican population, just like Eduardo Hidalgo, as a teacher, as a citizen respects his (the diplomat’s) and his nation," said the also deputy of the ruling PLD party, when asked about Brewster’s controversial visit to a school in Santiago.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Calls Grow in Caribbean Nation for Gay U.S. Ambassador's Removal" by Patrick Goodenough, CNSNews.com 3/11/16

. . . the U.S. Agency for International Development’s mission director for the Dominican Republic was quoted in local media as telling reporters that USAID would be spending $1 million to bolster the LGBT community in the Dominican Republic. The reports suggested that Alexandria Panehal had said the funds would also benefit political candidates supportive of the LGBT agenda. (The country holds elections in May.)

In response to the reports the embassy in a statement two days later said it wanted to clarify Panehal’s comments, stressing that the U.S. government “does not fund any political party or candidate in the current election process, here in Dominican Republic or anywhere else in the world. Any published reports to the contrary are incorrect.”

Pelegrin Castillo, presidential candidate for the center-right National Progressive Force (FNP) party, was quoted as saying that under the guise of defending the rights of minorities Brewster “has a business agenda to convert Santo Domingo into the Caribbean’s gay paradise.”

Brewster, who according to the non-partisan Center for Responsive Politics bundled at least $500,000 for Obama’s 2012 presidential campaign, is a former National LGBT co-chair for the Democratic National Committee.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "US gvmt’s latest gay activist move in the Dominican Republic: an ‘LGBT Chamber of Commerce’" by Gualberto Garcia Jones, J.D., LifeSiteNews 3/1/16

The US ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Wally Brewster, has a long track record of homosexual activism, having served on the national advisory board of the Human Rights Campaign for over 30 years.

Religious leaders have decried the blatant attack upon the values of a vast majority of the people of the Dominican Republic by agents of the United States.

The evangelical Christian leader Cristobal Cardozo called the LGBT jihad being waged upon his country "an insult to the good customs of the Dominican people, in a country where homosexual relations are not accepted legally or morally."

Catholic Archbishop Nicolás de Jesús López has also protested loudly, stating on one occasion that "if one wishes to live with another man, let him go out on his own, but for the state to debase itself, to ridicule itself, to pervert itself by extending the institution of marriage to two men or two women, that I will never accept, that is appalling behaviour." The same archbishop has stated that he will oppose the redefinition of marriage "up to his very death."

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Gay U.S. ambassador faces backlash in Dominican Republic" by Diulka Perez and Catherine E. Shoichet, CNN 11/28/13

High-profile Catholic Church leaders have decried the new diplomatic appointment as a sign of a lack of respect from Obama.

"He has not considered the particularities of our people. The United States is trying to impose on us marriage between gays and lesbians as well as adoption by these couples," said Father Luis Rosario, director of youth ministries for the church.

Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez Rodriguez has also criticized Brewster's selection several times . . .

Local media reported that an evangelical church called for "black Monday" protests, asking people to show their opposition to Brewster by tying black ribbons on their cars, according to local media reports.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "State Department chides cardinal over gay slurs against US ambassador" by Barnini Chakraborty, FoxNews.com 12/22/15

The State Department told FoxNews.com that U.S. policy is “dedicated to eliminating barriers to equality, fighting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and engaging LGBTI communities around the world.”

Brewster’s appointment has been a point of contention from the start. High-profile Catholic Church leaders said assigning an openly gay man to the post was seen as a lack of respect from the Obama administration.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

Also read President Obama Ignores Christian Genocide, Favors Gay Agenda

And read Vatican Opposes President Obama Pushing Gay Agenda at Pope

'Anti-Gay' Religious Liberty Law: West Virginia

The West Virginia Religious Freedom Restoration Act (HB 4012) passed the House of Delegates 72-26 and is favored in the Republican-controlled Senate, but Democrat Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin may veto the bill.  Christians say the new RFRA law is necessary because the growing number of local nondiscrimination ordinances allow violations of their religious beliefs.  Sexual revolutionaries are threatening businesses in order to pressure politicians to kill the bill.

"This bill will give state courts a balancing test that guides judges in considering cases alleging that the action of a governmental body has violated a citizen's deeply held religious belief."
-- House Speaker Tim Armstead

"Religious freedom is a basic human right, and a vital Constitutional right, that deserves protection under West Virginia law. Every West Virginian should be free to live and work according to their faith without fear of being punished by the government."
-- House Majority Whip John O'Neal

For background, read about the state-by-state momentum for Religious Freedom Restoration Acts (RFRA).

Click headlines below to read previous articles:

Indiana Religious Liberty Law to Fight Gay Agenda Jettisoned by Republicans

Arkansas Religious Freedom Law NOT Gay Enough

Religious Liberty in Homosexualists' Crosshairs

Homosexualists Launch Commerce Attack on Indiana to get Gay Rights

Also read Supreme Court Justice Scalia Says Government Should Favor God of the Bible

-- From "W.Va. House passes Religious Freedom Restoration Act" posted at The Herald-Dispatch (Huntington, WV) 2/11/16

The proposal would let people cite religious objections to state actions in certain court proceedings.

Proponents say it protects people's freedoms to express sincere religious beliefs, as long as there isn't a compelling state interest to restrict them.

Opponents say it's a license to discriminate, particularly against gay people.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "W.Va. House passes Religious Freedom Restoration Act" by WSAZ-TV3 News Staff (Huntington, WV) 2/11/16

The bill models after the federal Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) and laws that have been adopted by more than 20 other states.

Under the bill, if a person attempts to defend in court their religious beliefs against government action, a judge would use the following questions to evaluate the merits of the case:

1.) Does a person have a sincerely held religious belief?
2.) Has that belief been substantially burdened by government?
3.) Does the government have a compelling interest to substantially burden that belief?
4.) Has government exhausted all other means to achieve its goals without infringing on that belief, and is the action the least restrictive of that citizen’s religious beliefs?

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "WV House passes Religious Freedom bill, sends to Senate" by Erin Beck, Staff Writer, Charleston Gazette-Mail 2/11/16

Supporters, mainly Republicans, argued that the bill simply codifies a balancing test for courts to abide by when determining if a person’s religious beliefs are being violated by state action and doesn’t guarantee any outcome of that test. Opponents, mainly Democrats, argued that the potential legislation will be bad for business, harm West Virginia’s reputation and encourage discrimination against marginalized groups.

Delegate Mike Azinger, R-Wood, spoke fervently and at length about his belief that the Founding Fathers supported a Christian government.

Some Democratic lawmakers noted that religion has been used to discriminate in the past.

Mayors of several cities with LGBT-inclusive nondiscrimination ordinances, as well as a coalition of businesses worried about the economic impact of the bill, had spoken out against it.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "WV [small] businesses show support for LGBT patrons in wake of RFRA bill" by Erin Beck, Staff Writer, Charleston Gazette-Mail 2/15/16

Local business owners plan to display “All Kinds Welcome Here” stickers, designed by Jessica Kennedy, to signal that the businesses are friendly to the LGBT community.

Paul Greco, owner of Sam's Uptown Cafe and the Boulevard Tavern, in Charleston, said he hopes, “All Kinds are Welcome Here” stickers, which were designed by Jessica Kennedy, will be ready for distribution at Sam's by the end of the week. Interested businesses can also reach out through the Sam's Facebook page.

Keeley Steele, owner of Bluegrass Kitchen, Tricky Fish and Starling's, said she would post the sticker at her businesses.

Julia and Frank Gonzales, owners of Mi Cocina de Amor, said they would post the sticker, as well.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Major employers mum on WV Religious Freedom bill" by Erin Beck, Staff Writer, Charleston Gazette-Mail 2/17/16

A spokesman for Procter & Gamble, which is building a $500 million plant near Martinsburg, said the company believes it is “premature and inappropriate” to comment on the bill, since the company doesn't yet employ anyone in West Virginia.

The West Virginia United Health System is the second-largest private employer in the state, according to a Workforce West Virginia report from last fall.  Amy Johns, a spokeswoman for WVU Medicine, said . . . that no administrators were available to comment on the bill.

Charleston Area Medical Center spokesman Dale Witte said officials with that hospital system, the third-largest private employer in West Virginia, would not comment on the bill.

Marshall University spokesman Dave Wellman said the school also would not comment on the bill.

Representatives of Wal-Mart, West Virginia's largest private employer, and Mylan Pharmaceuticals, the state's fifth-largest employer, did not return multiple phone calls and emails. Wal-Mart opposed a similar bill in Arkansas, where the company is based.

Gary Broadbent, spokesman for Murray Energy Corp., said the company would not comment. Murray Energy is the sixth-largest private employer in the state, employing about 3,000 people in West Virginia. Broadbent did say the company has an LGBT-inclusive nondiscrimination policy.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

In addition, click headlines below to read previous articles:

Gay Agenda: IBM Boycotts Christian Louisiana Gov. Jindal

Corporations Embrace Gay Agenda, With a Vengeance

Pro Sports, GOP Urge Supreme Court to Go Gay

And read Gay Agenda will be Complete when Christians are Muzzled, Say Homosexualists as well as Senator Ted Cruz Says the Gay Agenda Ends Christian Liberty

Transgender Restrooms for S. Dakota Schools Passes

Yesterday, the South Dakota legislature passed a bill to comply with President Obama's edict that sexually confused students be accommodated in public schools; those students will use assigned private restrooms, locker rooms, showers, etc.  However, sexual revolutionaries are not satisfied because this means that the privacy of ALL students will be respected, such that use of facilities labeled boys/men and girls/women will be (traditionally) restricted based on "physical condition of being male or female as determined by a person's chromosomes and anatomy as identified at birth," rather than by whim (a.k.a. "gender identity").

"This is such the right thing to do to protect all of our students.  It's a privacy bill, it's a modesty bill, it's sensible South Dakota common sense."
-- Dale Bartscher, Family Heritage Alliance Action

UPDATE 3/1/16: South Dakota Governor Vetoes Bill, Won't Buck Obama Edict (see excerpts below)

For background, read President Obama Forces Wildest Transgender Agenda on School Children Using Full Force of Federal Government and now Hillary Clinton Promises Even MORE 'Transgender/Gay Rights'

Also read President Obama's Enforcer Follows Man into Ladies' Room

And read Virginia Bathroom Privacy Bill Defeated

Click headlines below to read previous articles:

Kindergartners Taught Transgenderism in St. Paul

Missouri Residents Protest Transgender/Gay Boy in Girls Locker Room

Parents' Lawyer Halts Wisconsin School Transgender Sneak Attack

Gender Redefined by NY City Law; Biology Be Damned

Also read how the Gay/Transgender Agenda is attacking America one town and one state at a time, but an attack was stopped cold by Houston voters.

-- From "S. Dakota is first state to pass bill restricting transgender students’ bathroom use" by Sandhya Somashekhar, Washington Post 2/16/16

The bill has provoked outrage from gay and transgender rights activists, who say it discriminates against transgender children. They say that it could put schools at risk of lawsuits; in 2014, the Education Department issued guidance finding that Title IX, the federal law that requires equal treatment of the sexes in schools, requires that students be permitted to use facilities that match their gender identity.

But the bill’s proponents have argued that the legislation actually matches up better with the original language of Title IX, which requires separate facilities for the sexes. They say it respects privacy while also meeting the needs of transgender students by requiring that schools allow them to use private facilities, such as a teacher’s or nurse’s bathroom.

The bill, which passed the state Senate 20 to 15, is just one example of how the debate over gay and transgender rights has shifted since same-sex couples won the right to marry, state by state at first and then nationally when the Supreme Court ruled that marriage was a constitutional right for gay couples.

Dozens of school districts have grappled with this issue, but South Dakota would be the first to make it a matter of state law. About a dozen states are considering similar legislation, according to the Human Rights Campaign.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "S.D. passes transgender student bathroom ban bill" by CBS News & The Associated Press 2/17/16

Under the plan, schools would have to provide a "reasonable accommodation" for transgender students, such as a single-occupancy bathroom or the "controlled use" of a staff-designated restroom, locker room or shower room.

Republican Sen. David Omdahl urged other legislators Tuesday to support the bill to "preserve the innocence of our young people."

Supporters say South Dakota's plan is a response to changes in the Obama administration's interpretation of the federal Title IX anti-discrimination law related to education. Federal officials have said that barring students from restrooms that match their gender identity is prohibited under [their new, progressive interpretation of] Title IX.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Transgender bathroom bill awaits Daugaard's signature" by Dana Ferguson, Argus Leader (Sioux Falls, SD) USA Today Network 2/16/16

The South Dakota Senate approved the bill Tuesday on a 20-15 vote, moving it to Republican Gov. Dennis Daugaard's desk for his approval. Daugaard has said the measure seems like a good idea and plans to research the issue and listen to recorded testimony before making up his mind on whether to make the bill law.

The vote sparked outrage from Democrats and LGBT families and advocates Tuesday afternoon who said the measure is discriminatory, while conservatives marked its passage as a success in maintaining the privacy of South Dakota students.

Rep. Fred Deutsch, R-Florence, the bill's author, has said the measure is designed to ensure the privacy of transgender and non-transgender students in the most private areas in schools. He said the federal government has overstepped its authority in drafting Title IX regulations that require school districts to accommodate transgender students and they should receive "reasonable accommodations."

The state's House of Representatives approved the measure on a 58-10 vote last month.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "South Dakota Is The First State To Pass A Transphobic Student Bathroom Bill" by Lydia O'Connor, General Assignment Reporter, The Huffington Post 2/16/16

The bill provides that with written parental permission, affected students may request a "reasonable accommodation ... that does not impose an undue hardship on a school district," such as use of a single-occupancy restroom.

The Transgender Law Center lambasted the bill's passage as "distressing and disturbing" and said it believes the legislation violates federal law.

"Every single child, including transgender youth, should have the opportunity to succeed and be treated fairly by our schools and elected officials," the center's executive director Kris Hayashi told The Huffington Post in a statement. If the governor signs the measure, Hayashi said, it will "endanger students and open up South Dakota schools to legal chaos, liability, and the loss of millions in federal funds."

Democrats, arguing against the bill in the Senate on Tuesday, also raised concerns that the measure may trigger the federal government to pull money from public schools, BuzzFeed News noted. Controversy also may prompt a tourism boycott, the Democrats warned.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Senate: Transgender students must use facilities determined by their sex at birth" by Bob Mercer, Correspondent, Rapid City Journal 2/16/16

Sen. David Omdahl, R-Sioux Falls, said the bill protects transgender individuals by providing separate facilities. He said it would preserve “the innocence of young people.”

[Sen. Bernie Hunhoff, D-Yankton] said he doesn’t know why South Dakota was chosen to be a test state, and he resents it.

[Sen. Brock Greenfield, R-Clark] said the state attorney general will defend the state law but won’t defend individual school districts. He said two [religious liberty rights] groups have volunteered to defend school districts.

Sen. Scott Parsley, D-Madison, asked Greenfield if the groups would pay for any legal settlement.

“I don’t want to get off on some rabbit trails,” Greenfield replied. He added that the groups would be responsible for legal costs.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

UPDATE 3/1/16: From "South Dakota Governor Vetoes Restriction on Transgender Bathroom Access" by Mitch Smith, New York Times

Gov. Dennis Daugaard put out a statement late in the day saying that the bill did “not address any pressing issue” facing the state, and that it would have put schools in the “difficult position of following state law while knowing it openly invites federal litigation.”

The measure was pushed by conservative legislators who said it was an effort to protect the privacy of all students. But it appeared to conflict with the Obama administration’s interpretation of federal civil rights law and seemed likely to be headed for a court challenge.

“If and when these rare situations arise, I believe local school officials are best positioned to address them,” Mr. Daugaard wrote in a letter to lawmakers announcing his decision. “Instead of encouraging local solutions, this bill broadly regulates in a manner that invites conflict and litigation, diverting energy and resources from the education of the children of this state.” State Representative Fred Deutsch, the Republican who introduced the South Dakota bill, said he would not seek an override. Mr. Deutsch has said he believed that the federal Education Department had overstepped in its interpretation of Title IX, which bans sex discrimination in federally funded education programs, and that students’ biological sex should determine which restroom they use. Mr. Deutsch said he had spoken with Mr. Daugaard shortly before the veto statement was released.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

Also read Transgenderism is a 'Delusion' According to Victims and Professionals

And read 52-year-old Man is Adopted as 6-year-old Girl

Feminists vs. Super Bowl Ad 'Humanizing Fetuses'

The National Abortion Rights Action League (NARAL) lambasted a Doritos commercial that aired during the 50th Super Bowl yesterday because an unborn child was depicted in an animated ultrasound image as being aware of his/her surroundings, including of the father with his Doritos snack chips.  The recognition of a fetus as a functioning human being (personhood) is the antithesis of abortion advocacy.

For background, read how Ultrasound of Baby Jesus Riles Abortionists During Christmas

Click headlines below to read previous articles:

Pro-life Super Bowl Commercials Censored

Christian Super Bowl Commercials Censored by FOX

Atheists' Super Bowl Ad Attacks Christians, Prayer

Anti-Christian, Pro-abortion Feminists Storm Super Bowl

Also read Physicians Force New York Times to Admit 22-week Fetus is a Baby!



-- From "NARAL goes on angry Super Bowl tweetstorm" by Kristen East, Politico 2/7/16

NARAL Pro-Choice America, a leading advocacy group on the issue of abortion, started firing a string of tweets about ads running during Super Bowl 50 on Sunday night, criticizing several in particular as "transphobic" or "sexist."

The group had announced it would be live-tweeting the event to call out "sexist" advertisers and their creations. . . .

Snack companies couldn't catch a break, apparently. NARAL called out a Snickers commercial for being "transphobic" and a Doritos ad for "humanizing fetuses" . . .

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Abortion rights group is mad at Doritos Super Bowl ad" by Jennifer Brett, Atlanta Journal-Constitution 2/8/16

In the commercial, a guy munching away on a bag of Doritos during his wife’s ultrasound attracts the attention of their unborn child, who makes a hasty exit, presumably to share Dad’s snack.

NARAL also complains that the ad reinforces “sexist tropes of dads as clueless and moms as uptight.”

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Super Bowl Ads Are a Hit for Mountain Dew, Miss for Doritos" by Gerry Smith, Bloomberg Business 2/7/16

Don’t mess with babies. Unless they are attached to puppies and monkeys.

That is one of the marketing lessons to come out of Super Bowl 50 . . .

For better or worse, Pepsi’s Doritos brand certainly knows how to create some buzz. In one of its Super Bowl spots, a woman is getting an ultrasound while her partner stands by, eating Doritos. She gets upset at his lack of decorum and throws a chip across the room. Her unborn fetus goes after it, and everyone screams. . . .

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Abortion group attacks Super Bowl ad showing ultrasound" by Kelly Sloan, Trunews 2/8/16

One of the biggest abortion groups in the U.S. has attacked one of Sunday’s Super Bowl ads for being “anti-choice”, but the commercial was about Doritos.

The National Abortion Rights Action League also accused Snickers of being “transphobic” for an ad which depicts a grumpy man wearing the white dress made famous by Marilyn Monroe. Once he ate the candy bar, he turned into the real Monroe, because he wasn’t hungry any more, according to Breitbart.

The group also blasted a Hyundai ad on Twitter, calling it “sexist” and “misogynistic”, when an advertisement aired about a dad following his teenage daughter on a date. They claimed his concern for his child was taking away her autonomy and “stalking her”, as The Daily Caller reported.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

Also read how broadcast media are biased against Christian athletes.

Obama's Enforcer Follows Man into Ladies' Room

The federal government has strong-armed Deluxe Financial Services Corp. of Shoreview, Minnesota into an agreement to pay $115,000 and change its company policy to allow men into women's facilities.  As part of the legal action, the Obama administration Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) will be following up to ensure the company succumbs fully to the Gay Agenda.

The male employee, after beginning to show up for work in female clothing, complained in part, that Deluxe supervisors and coworkers referred to him using male pronouns.

For background, read President Obama's OSHA Teams Up with EEOC to OK Perverts in Employees'  Restrooms and, by decree, says that the Title VII Gay Agenda Trumps Congress (yielding de facto ENDA) 

Also read All Ladies' Rooms Open to Men in Washington State

And read President Obama Forces Wildest Transgender Agenda on School Children Using Full Force of Federal Government and now Hillary Clinton Promises Even MORE 'Transgender/Gay Rights'

UPDATE 4/2/16: Toilets NOT in Restrooms will be New Design for Transgender Agenda

-- From "Minnesota Company Settles Transgender Discrimination Suit for $115K" posted at Insurance Journal 1/26/16

According to EEOC’s complaint, Britney Austin was assigned the male sex at birth and presented as male when hired by the company. Ms. Austin performed her duties satisfactorily in the company’s Phoenix offices throughout a lengthy tenure. However, after she informed her supervisor that she was transgender and began to present as a woman at work, Deluxe refused to let her use the women’s restroom.

Such alleged conduct violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits sex discrimination, including that based on transgender status and gender stereotyping. This includes subjecting an employee to different terms and conditions or a hostile work environment because of sex.

A suit filed by EEOC, EEOC v. Deluxe Financial Services, Inc., sought both monetary and injunctive relief. Britney Austin intervened in the lawsuit and asserted additional claims.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Judge orders company to pay $115,000 to transgender in U.S. sex discrimination case" by Jonah Hicap, Christian Today 1/25/16

Minnesota U.S. District Court Judge Ann Montgomery issued a consent decree on Jan. 20 ordering Deluxe Financial Services Inc. to pay Britney Austin the amount and change its equal employment opportunity policies to prevent unlawful sex discrimination and harassment.

Montgomery also told the company to issue a letter of reference for future employers, change its national health benefits plan to delete any partial exclusion for health care based on transgender status and provide an annual report to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which filed the lawsuit on behalf of the complainant.

The company issued a letter of apology, which states, "We want to ensure you that we have made changes to our internal policies, including how we treat transgender employees' requests to change biographical information or use a restroom commensurate with their gender identity."

"The company has changed its policies to ensure that transgender employees may use a restroom commensurate with their gender identity, that the company will promptly correct that employee's sex designation and name in our internal records and systems, and that we will take hostile comments based on sex- stereotyping seriously, investigate them, and take prompt corrective and remedial action," the letter read.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Deluxe Financial to Settle Sex Discrimination Suit on Behalf of Transgender Employee" by U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), posted at JD Supra 1/22/2016

In addition to requiring that Deluxe pay monetary damages to Ms. Austin, a three-year consent decree provides that Deluxe will issue a letter of apology to Ms. Austin and a letter of reference for future employers. The consent decree also provides that, as of January 1, 2016, Deluxe's national health benefits plan will not include any partial or categorical exclusion for otherwise medically necessary care based on transgender status.

"This settlement underscores EEOC's commitment to securing the rights of transgender individuals under Title VII in the federal courts," said EEOC General Counsel David Lopez. "This is our second such resolution and we hope that employers will take notice and begin to take proactive steps to prevent and eliminate discrimination against their transgender workers."

This is the third lawsuit filed by EEOC alleging discrimination on the basis of transgender status. In April, 2015, a Florida eye clinic paid $150,000 to settle an EEOC lawsuit seeking relief for an employee who had been transitioning from male to female. EEOC also filed suit seeking relief for an employee of a Detroit area funeral home fired for transitioning from male to female, which is still pending.

Acting [EEOC] District Director Elizabeth Cadle added, "EEOC considers protecting transgender, lesbian, gay, and bisexual employees to be a strategic enforcement priority. We will continue to assure that transgender employees receive the full benefit of federal anti-discrimination laws in all industries."

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Minn. Co., EEOC Settle Transgender Discrimination Suit" by Kat Greene, Law360 1/20/16

Austin wasn’t allowed to use the women’s restroom and co-workers used hurtful epithets and intentionally used the wrong gender pronouns to refer to her, the EEOC said in a June complaint. The company denies having created or subjected Austin to a hostile workplace, and said it’s “fully committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful workplace,” according to the order.

“In the interest of resolving this matter, to avoid further cost of litigation, and as a result of having engaged in comprehensive settlement negotiations, the parties have agreed that this action should be resolved by entry of this decree,” Judge Montgomery wrote in Wednesday’s order.

The EEOC is represented in-house by Laurie A Vasichek, Iris Halpern and Michael H. Imdiecke. Austin is represented by Jillian T. Weiss and Ezra Young.

Deluxe is represented by Angela Beranek Brandt and David M. Wilk of Larson King LLP.

The case is Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. Deluxe Financial Services Inc., case number 0:15-cv-02646, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Transgender Roadmap: 10 Steps The EEOC Thinks Employers Should Take" by Robin E. Shea, JD Supra Business Advisor 1/23/2016

1) Include gender identity in your non-discrimination and no-harassment policies. If you’re a federal contractor, you should have done this a long time ago. If you’re not, then you should seriously consider adding it now.

2) Make sure your policies provide that discrimination against or harassment of individuals because of their transgender (and related) status will not be tolerated, whether the behavior comes from “employees, customers, agents, contractors, sub-contractors, clients,” or anyone else.

3) Make sure that employees understand that deliberately referring to a transgendered person by his or her “biological” gender, or by his or her original name, is considered discrimination and harassment by the EEOC.

. . .

5) A transgendered employee should be allowed to use the restroom “commensurate with their gender identity” without any limitations. Again, the EEOC’s position is that the employer may not ask for the medical records of the transgendered employee, or otherwise probe into his or her medical details before doing so. (This means an employer cannot make the employee wait to change restrooms until after he or she has had gender-reassignment surgery.)

. . .

7) The employer should conduct annual training for rank-and-file employees that includes discrimination based on gender identity, sex stereotyping, and gender dysphoria, and should penalize any employee who fails to complete the training on an annual basis.

To read the entire article above, and all ten steps, CLICK HERE.

Also read Transgenderism is a 'Delusion' According to Victims and Professionals

Homosexualists Launch Commerce Attack on Indiana

Last April, the Indiana legislature and governor were bullied by homosexualists nationwide to weaken the religious liberty of citizens, but that law didn't go far enough according to Gay Agenda advocates.

UPDATE 2/3/16: Gay Agenda Bill Dies in Indiana Legislature (see excerpts below)

For background, read Indiana Law to Fight Gay Agenda Jettisoned by Republicans and also read Media, Gays Shut Down Indiana Christian Pizza Restaurant

And read Homosexualists' Bullying of Commerce Challenged

Click headlines below to read previous articles:

Lesbian Denver Official Nixes Christian Business at Airport

Gay Agenda: IBM Boycotts Christian Louisiana Gov. Jindal

Corporations Embrace Gay Agenda, With a Vengeance

Pro Sports, GOP Urge Supreme Court to Go Gay







-- From "150 businesses in group pushing for Indiana LGBT protections" by Brian Slodysko, Associated Press 12/2/15

A coalition of 150 Indiana businesses said Wednesday that the absence of a state law guaranteeing LGBT civil rights protections could hamper the ability of companies to draw talented workers, harming the state economy.

Indiana Competes, which includes Eli Lilly and Co., Cummins, AT&T and Anthem among its ranks, plans to hold events around the state in the coming weeks to publicize the issue ahead of the legislative session that begins in January.

[Last April, the] law was changed amid the unrest. But in the aftermath, business groups and other supporters of gay and lesbian rights have pushed for a statewide ban on disicimination in housing, employment and public accommodation based on a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. Religious conservatives, however, object because they believe it could force Christian businesses owners to violate sincerely held religious beliefs.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Indiana Businesses Join Forces To Push For LGBT Protections" by Mike Perleberg, WSCH-FM99.3 (Lawrenceburg, IN) 12/3/15

The coalition plans to hold events throughout the state to recruit business pledges and educate other business leaders on LGBT equality’s impact on economic growth.

Indiana is still struggling to include them in the state’s civil rights law without angering conservatives and religious groups who supported the original version of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act [RFRA]. The law passed earlier this year caused many businesses and states to boycott Indiana, worrying many in the business community.

Proposed legislation from Indiana Senate Republicans would add sexual orientation and sexual identity to the state’s civil rights law, but would also carve out religious exemptions.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Firms: Protect LGBT rights" by Olivia Covington, The Republic (Columbus, IN) 12/4/15

Local lawmakers don’t believe a lack of statewide civil rights protections for LGBT Hoosiers hinders employers from attracting quality workers or stifles the state economy.

. . . state Sen. Greg Walker, a Republican representing Columbus, said Indiana’s economy is growing, even after the nationwide uproar over the Religious Freedom Restoration Act last spring.

Ultimately, lawmakers passed an amended bill that said businesses could not discriminate based on sexual orientation but declined to add that protection to the state’s civil rights code.

. . . State GOP leaders are already working toward finding the common ground with Democrats. Republicans in the Senate proposed a bill last month that would grant protections to LGBT Hoosiers while also carving out certain religious exemptions.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Indiana businesses join in LGBT campaign" by Jeff Swiatek, Indianapolis Star 12/2/15

The Indy Chamber has organized the coalition, using its office space in the Chase Tower. Joining the coalition, called Indiana Competes, is free for businesses, but donations are requested, said Indy Chamber CEO Michael Huber.

Micah Clark, executive director of the American Family Association of Indiana, which has fought past efforts to pass statewide LGBT protections, called the business coalition "an unnecessary politicizing of the workforce."

Ron Johnson, executive director of Indiana Pastors Alliance, also criticized the coalition, saying, "It's really buying into a false narrative … that there is a large population of LGBT workers who are being discriminated against."

"There are Christian … business owners … who are being fined and discriminated against. Those are the people we should be trying to protect," he said.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Indiana's proposed new religious freedom plan draws ire" by Michelle L. Quinn and Carrie Napoleon, Chicago Tribune 11/26/15

Senate Republicans recently detailed a plan that would extend civil rights to include people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. Business groups and other supporters, for example, would like to see housing and public accommodations made for those groups.

It would also, however, leave religious or religious-affiliated groups — such as private schools, adoption agencies, social service and charitable service agencies — exempt from abiding by any protections offered. It also would prohibit the state from taking any action against those groups that don't abide by the protections. The state could not evoke tax exemptions, deny tax deductions, withhold grants or contracts, or deny accreditation or licenses, under the plan.

Additionally, the proposal allows small businesses with fewer than four full-time employees to refuse providing marriage-related services or goods on religious grounds, and transgender people would have to prove they'd had at least 12 months of medical care and actively lived as the sex to which they identify before they could use a coinciding restroom or dressing room, or file a complaint to the Indiana Human Rights Commission.

And any person identifying as LGBT who files a "frivolous" complaint to the Indiana Human Rights Commission would be fined $1,000, under the proposal.

Protections that 20 municipalities have carved out for the LGBT community, meanwhile, would be superseded, a point over which the Lake County Council expressed disbelief. That council passed an LGBT protection ordinance in May.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

Also read Republicans Going Gay, to be 'Moderate' & Likeable

From "Senate GOP unveils bill with LGBT protections" by Niki Kelly, The Journal Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN) 11/17/15

The proposed legislation - Senate Bill 100 - would generally bar discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in housing and employment.

The bill also delves into the issue of bathroom usage in schools and public places by stating it is not discriminatory or unlawful segregation to have restroom and shower policies, as well as dress codes, based on sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.

According to conservative group Advance America, "making gender identity a protected class will give men, including sexual predators (rapists and child molesters), legal access to women’s restrooms throughout Indiana, as well as women’s locker rooms in a fitness facility and other locations like public pools thereby placing women and girls at risk of being harmed!"

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

UPDATE 2/2/16: From "Indiana gay rights bill is dead: 'We took a beating from all sides'" by The Associated Press & Chicago Tribune wire reports

Indiana Republican lawmakers abandoned efforts to strengthen protections for lesbian, gay and bi-sexual people on Tuesday, opting not to vote on a measure designed to restore the state's reputation following a national boycott over a religious objections law last year.

Efforts to find a balance between the civil rights of the LGBT community and religious liberty had satisfied no one, said Sen. David Long, leader of majority Republicans. He said efforts to pass a gay rights bill were dead for this legislative year.

The measure abandoned by Republicans was faulted by Democrats and LGBT rights activists for not including transgender people and allowing broad religious exemptions. Religious conservatives said it would still require people to provide services for same-sex marriages such as flowers or cakes even if they had religious objections.

Some evangelical Christians welcomed its demise, saying it would have whittled away religious freedom. American Family Association of Indiana director Micah Clark said the bill was a "fatally flawed concept."

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

UPDATE 2/3/16: From "Why Indiana lawmakers killed the gay rights debate for this year" by Stephanie Wang, Chelsea Schneider and Tony Cook, Indianapolis Star

The end of the debate marks a huge win for religious conservatives, who have been battling a changing cultural tide on gay rights issues. It also relieves political pressure on Republican Gov. Mike Pence, a born-again Christian who last month questioned the need for such legislation, as he seeks re-election.

Pulling the plug on legislation deals a blow to influential Indiana businesses that pushed for LGBT rights, and to advocacy groups that have, until now, successfully fought to advance the status of LGBT Hoosiers.

It was a swift death for the gay rights proposal, Senate Bill 344, which was carried by Republican leadership in the Senate. Last week, a Senate committee crafted and gave initial approval to the proposal to extend civil rights to gay Hoosiers, but not transgender people, with some exemptions for religious organizations, faith-based groups and small businesses providing wedding services.

Social conservatives and tea party activists who were upset with recent legislative losses on same-sex marriage and the so-called RFRA “fix” had pledged to exact revenge on Republican lawmakers who crossed them again.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

Also read about the Gay Agenda strategy of attacking one town (or one state) at a time to elevate "gay rights" over religious liberty.

And read Gay Agenda will be Complete when Christians are Muzzled, Say Homosexualists as well as Senator Ted Cruz Says the Gay Agenda Ends Christian Liberty

Office Depot Refuses Christian Customer: Illinois

When Maria Goldstein took her print order to the Office Depot in the Chicago suburb of Schaumburg, Illinois, she was turned away because the office supply store was “restricted by corporate policy” from reproducing a “religious flyer” with pro-life propaganda that criticizes Planned Parenthood.  Attorneys representing Goldstein have informed the big box retailer that their policy is a violation of “the Cook County Human Rights Ordinance, which forbids public businesses from discriminating based on religion.”

For background, read America Protests Planned Parenthood, Media Ignore

Click headlines below to read previous articles:

9th Circuit Court Forces Christians into Abortion Business

Harassment of Pro-lifers Costs Illinois City $$

Ohio College Pays $9,000 for Censoring Christian Speech

Christian Refused at Pro-gay-only Lunch Counter

Lesbian Government Official Nixes Christian Business at Denver Airport

Kansas Governor Protects Religious Liberty, Homosexualists Attack

Public Schools Ban Pro-life Student Clubs Across America

Persecuted Christians Testify at Iowa Rally for Religious Liberty



-- From "Office Depot in Schaumburg Accused of Religious Discrimination" posted at WMAQ-TV5 NBC Chicago 9/10/15

The demand letter [from Goldstein's attorneys] says Office Depot must “cease its unlawful refusal to service Ms. Goldstein’s copying order.” [Special counsel Thomas] Olp said if the company refuses, he will bring the issue before the Cook County Human Rights Commission or the Illinois Department of Human Rights.

Office Depot did not immediately respond to NBC Chicago’s request for comment but a spokeswoman for the company told the Chicago Tribune the company policy prohibits “the copying of any type of material that advocates any form of racial or religious discrimination or the persecution of certain groups of people.”

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Office Depot accused of religious discrimination" by Manya Brachear Pashman, Reporter, Chicago Tribune 9/10/15

Last month, Maria Goldstein, 42, ordered 500 copies of "A Prayer for the Conversion of Planned Parenthood" at an Office Depot in Schaumburg to distribute at her [Catholic] parish the following Sunday. The handout also included statistics about abortion in the U.S. and at Planned Parenthood, a non-profit organization that provides women's and reproductive health services.

The prayer, composed by the Rev. Frank Pavone, national director of Priests for Life, an anti-abortion group, calls on God to "Bring an end to the killing of children in the womb, and bring an end to the sale of their body parts. Bring conversion to all who do this, and enlightenment to all who advocate it."

The prayer also decries "the evil that has been exposed in Planned Parenthood and in the entire abortion industry."

Thomas Olp, a lawyer for the Chicago-based Thomas More Society, a public interest law group that represents Goldstein, said the situation fits into the public accommodation laws that date back to when businesses refused to serve African-Americans and Jews.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Schaumburg store accused of refusing to copy anti-Planned Parenthood flier" by Eric Peterson, Daily Herald (suburban Chicago) 9/10/15

The Thomas More Society describes itself as a not-for-profit law firm that provides pro bono services aimed at restoring respect in law for life, family and religious liberty.

Goldstein said she already knew of the Thomas More Society and thought of them immediately when she felt she was facing religious discrimination.

"I know that they're strong defenders of religious freedom," she said.

Olp said that because Goldstein's flier has already been printed, Office Depot could make amends stating that such discrimination will never happen again. If such a statement is not made within five working days, Olp said he plans to file a complaint with the Cook County Human Rights Commission.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Office Depot Refuses To Print Anti-Planned Parenthood Flyers" by Casey Harper, Daily Caller 9/10/15

Office Depot may face a lawsuit after refusing to print flyers that criticize Planned Parenthood, saying the flyers “persecute” people who believe in abortion rights.

“When I tell people they’re shocked because this is America,” Goldstein told The Daily Caller News Foundation. “Office Depot is trying to silence my freedom of speech and my freedom of religion.”

“This seems crazy,” Olp told TheDCNF. “To say that a prayer that calls for conversion and understanding and enlightenment is persecution, to call that persecution to me is the height of intolerance.”

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

From "Charge: Office Depot refused Christian print job" by Bob Unruh, World Net Daily 9/10/15

“We suggest that you consider what your position would be if our client were black and your employees refused service because of her race,” said a letter to Office Depot Chairman Roland C. Smith from Thomas Olp of the Thomas More Society, which is representing the woman.

“In that case it would not be hard to see how unreasonable that refusal of service would be. The public accommodation laws do not give any greater leeway for refusal of service when a customer’s religious expression motivates the refusal. … Our laws welcome religion and religious expression, treat it fairly and equally, and do not permit its marginalization or silencing.”

[Olp] said if there is an employee with some sort of religious objection to the Christian statements, the company should accommodate that employee and find someone else to do the print job.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

UPDATE 9/12/15: From "Office Depot Retreats from Refusal to Print Pro-Life Prayer it Said Was ‘Hate Material’" by Terence P. Jeffrey, CNSNews.com

The company explained its decision in a letter its assistant general counsel, Robert A. Amicone, sent Olp on Sept. 11.

“You also say that [the flyer] is ‘religious throughout in tone and content’ and ‘contains a prayer’ seeking an end to abortion,” said the Office Depot attorney in this letter. “You do not mention, however, certain language within the prayer that discusses ‘the killing of children in the womb’ and ‘the grisly trade in baby body parts.’

“Nor do you address the strong language presumably condemning those who perform and obtain abortions,” said the Office Depot letter. “Indeed, the prayer characterizes those individuals as ‘evil,’ and it advocates for the closure of the ‘death camps in our midst.’ It is this type of language that led to the decision to refuse you client’s copying request.”

“There are two provisions [of the company’s policy] applicable to this dispute,” explained the lawyer. “The first prohibits the copying of ‘graphic material,’ which can include descriptions of dead or dismembered bodies. The second provision prohibits the copying of ‘hate material’ that advocates for the persecution of groups of people, regardless of the reason.”

Goldstein’s flyer did not contain any illustrations—and called for the “conversion,” not persecution, of those who advocate aborting unborn children.

“To be clear,” said Office Depot’s lawyer, “Office Depot’s position is that the above-quoted language falls within the definition of ‘graphic material’ and/or ‘hate material,’ making the refusal to print the flyer appropriate.”

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

UPDATE 9/11/15: From "Office Depot apologizes over refusal to copy anti-abortion prayer" by Manya Brachear Pashman, Chicago Tribune

"We sincerely apologize to Ms. (Maria) Goldstein for her experience and our initial reaction was not at all related to her religious beliefs," Roland Smith, chairman and chief executive officer of Office Depot, said in a statement. "We invite her to return to Office Depot if she still wishes to print the flier."

[Spokeswoman for Office Depot, Karen] Denning said a more detailed review of the flier determined that it was not a clear violation of the company's policy, which prohibits "the copying of any type of material that advocates any form of racial or religious discrimination or the persecution of certain groups of people."

Denning said the policy won't change but added that customers can use the self-service copy machines inside stores without being subject to the policy.

To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.

Also read ACLU Forces Catholic Hospital To Sterilize Woman

And read Gay American Courts Persecute Christian: Kim Davis

The flyer that Office Depot refused to print: