In understanding the strategy for the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which would extend civil rights to LGBT workers, it’s important to understand that secrecy is our enemy. The Senate leadership will not bring this vote to the floor unless there are enough Senators in favor to overcome the expected Republican filibuster. That means 60 solid votes. Senator Max Baucus of Montana stands with us — but not publicly. That’s a problem.

It’s great to have supporters, even if they haven’t made a big hoopla about it. But what happened in 2007 is that many legislators private committed to ENDA, so we thought we had enough votes, but when crunch time came, their support vaporized like a snowflake in the sun. In order to get the bill through the House, the leadership cut out an important part of our community from the bill, causing a major rift that is only just starting to heal. Secrecy is our enemy in Washington, and a secret yes is, in some ways, worse than a public no. We believe we’re standing on solid ground when, in fact, we’re on thin ice.

Now it’s time for Senator Baucus to make his support known publicly. Please call Senator Baucus today to ask for his support, and report back what his office says. You can email me at [email protected]. If you’re not sure what to say when you call, click here for a “Step-by-Step Script For Calling Legislators On ENDA.”

Facts and contact info: CLICK HERE