Remarks of Bess Watts on Monroe County's Appeal of the "Martinez Decision"

(Rochester & Genesee Valley Area Labor Federation)

          My name is Bess Watts; I am the President of the Rochester-Finger Lakes Chapter of Pride at Work.  In justifying Monroe County's plan to appeal the Martinez decision, whereby New York State recognizes same-sex marriages performed outside the state, County Executive Maggie Brooks said, "We must appeal this decision in order to protect Monroe County taxpayers. We cannot simply extend benefits to unmarried couples ..."  The members  of Pride At Work asked me to tell you that they do not want their tax dollars spent on justifying discrimination against them.  Gay Monroe County residents – the second largest gay population in New York State - also pay taxes.  It is simple equity that gay and lesbian county employees get the same benefits for their families as those extended to their heterosexual co-workers, especially given the state law against workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation.  

             Most major businesses in the Rochester area provide these benefits with minimal cost, which they view as good for both employers and workers alike. Monroe County, by your actions, create worker inequity, fostering disrespect for those deemed "second-class" employees with "insignificant" families.   This attitude trickles down to the front lines and fosters an unfriendly and hostile work environment for gay and lesbian employees.

           Businesses understand the value of inclusion, Monroe County, struggling with job losses and "brain drain," has put another nail in the area's economic coffin.  The decision to appeal makes no economic sense.  Please, do not marginalize good employees; embrace them equally.  Withdrawing this appeal will benefit everyone.