Nashville LGBT Chamber Responds to SCOTUS Victory

In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court has now ensured no employer has the right to discriminate against a person because of their sexual orientation or gender identity through the expansion of Title VII. The ruling grants federal job protections to gay, lesbian, and transgender workers to further advance the cause of LGBTQ rights. Conservatives Chief Justice John Roberts and Neil Gorsuch joined the court’s four liberal justices in the majority.

“This decision reminds us that change is possible when we pursue it from every avenue possible, advocating at the legislature, challenging discriminatory legislation through the courts, organizing and protesting in the community and voting for pro LGBT candidates in every election.” said Joe Woolley, CEO.  “We are particularly proud that even traditionally conservative justices agree that LGBT rights are human rights now enshrined in our laws.”

Business will continue to be the catalyst for continued advancement and positive change for our diverse and marginalized communities. Our 500+ members understand the economic imperative of inclusion and diversity within their businesses and through their policies. 

Woolley continued, “After marriage equality 5 years ago next week, many LGBT and ally people thought the movement for equality was over. They did not realize that you could be married on Saturday and then fired on Monday in over half the country. 28 states had little or no workplace protections for the LGBT community. About 4.5% of the U.S. population, or roughly 11 million people, identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer; 88% of them are employed.”

The LGBT community is a vital part of the American economy and deserves equal treatment under the law. This decision is a shining light in an otherwise tumultuous climate. This is a victory for our community and exemplifies the work of organizations like the Nashville LGBT Chamber. We will continue to advocate for LGBT rights in the workplace. 

National Margarita Day

A lot of us have really picked up an interest in tequila and it's no wonder. Its popularity is soaring in the U.S. and doesn't look like it'll be slowing down any time soon. The only contender would probably be whiskey. Meh, but they have their own day. Now, it's National Margarita Day and we put together some of the best margarita recipes around so you can pick one or maybe even all of them to try.

We have a few surprises in there too. Maybe it's not all about tequila but it certainly has a theme going on. Take a look at some of these great tequila brands and start making some amazing margaritas today!

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Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash

Gender-Inclusive Universities and Student Privacy

For many students, attending university is a profound, often life-changing, transition. It is often the student’s first time living on their own without parental supervision. This lifestyle is also accompanied by a period of self-discovery, of defining and redefining a sense of personal identity largely independent of the influence of family and friends from home.

For students who are members of the LGBTQ+ community, this rite of passage can also be a deeply empowering one. Indeed, attending university may be the student’s first real opportunity to explore their gender identity in a safe, comfortable, and accepting college.

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José Cuervo's Reserva de la Familia agave fields

Disclaimer: My trip was provided courtesy of a press trip but all opinions about the trip and events are my own. Please note there are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you make a purchase.

I had the opportunity to visit Mexico for an event José Cuervo was putting on, the unveiling of their premium tequila brand, Reserva de la Familia. The trip was all about tequila, how to drink it properly, how to pair it with food, and of course, visiting various points of interest in Guadalajara while tasting tequila along the way.

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