New survey shows Wisconsinites opposed to discrimination of LGBT individual

MILWAUKEE —A new, first of its kind, poll commissioned by the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber and conducted by Public Policy Polling, shows that a strong majority of Wisconsinites are opposed to discrimination among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals in Wisconsin.

In the survey conducted earlier this month, 62% of Wisconsinites believe that discrimination against transgender individuals is wrong and should be illegal.

“People in Wisconsin believe that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity” said Jason Rae, President & CEO of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce.

The survey also found that 63% of people believe Wisconsin’s non-discrimination laws should be updated to protect transgender individuals.

“Wisconsin was the first state in the nation to pass a law protecting against discrimination in 1982 based on sexual orientation, but it did not include gender identity and expression protections,” added Rae. “This poll shows that there is strong support to amend Wisconsin’s 1982 non-discrimination law to protect transgender individuals from discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations.”

In addition, the poll also found that 59% of people believe that businesses do not have a right to discriminate against LGBT people based on so-called “religious freedom” grounds. A majority of respondents also said that they would be less likely to spend money at a business that discriminated against LGBT people.

“It’s clear that a majority of people believe it’s wrong to discriminate against someone simply because of who they are or who they love,” said Rae. “We know from first-hand stories, and now this poll, that consumers – both LGBT and straight – want to do business with those that share their values. The Wisconsin LGBT Chamber will continue to make sure we are doing everything we can to create a stronger welcoming and inclusive business community in our state.”

A complete version of the results of the survey is attached.

The Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce is an organization of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and LGBT-allied businesses, corporations and professionals throughout the state of Wisconsin. It offers networking opportunities, business development efforts within the LGBT community, and educational programming to its members. The organization has more than 500 members from around the state. In 2015, the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce received the National Chamber of the Year Award from the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). More information can be found online at: www.wislgbtchamber.com.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.