Blog

Responding to SCOTUS Rulings

Dear Residents, Staff, Family and Friends of Edenwald,

As you have heard by now, there were two rulings issued by the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) at the end of last week regarding Affirmative Action and an anti-LGBTQ+ non-discrimination case.

June 29, 2023: Affirmative Action has been repealed in higher education.

June 30, 2023: Certain businesses (creative/expressive) can legally refuse services to LGBTQ+ individuals, which is an exception to public accommodation laws.

There are a total of 29 states, Washington D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands that protect LGBTQ+ rights in public accommodations, in various ways.

Source: Movement Advancement Project. “Equality Maps: Credit Nondiscrimination Laws.”

Affirmative Action was implemented in the 1960’s for several reasons and is primarily aimed at addressing historical and ongoing discrimination.  It ensures that individuals from marginalized and underrepresented groups have equal access to education, employment and other opportunities.

In the 1960’s, right before the Stonewall Riots, New York did not allow LGBTQ+ individuals the right to be served alcohol in public establishments.  This, among many other things, comes to mind when thinking about this current anti-LGBTQ+ ruling, allowing the refusal of service based on sexual orientation.

When you think about what’s happening in 2023, you have to wonder what else could be modified or repealed, when it comes to civil rights and protecting minority groups.

We reassure you that Edenwald’s unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging goes beyond just acknowledging its importance; we are working to actively incorporate it into all aspects of our operations, values and decision-making processes. Some of the key components of our commitment:

• Board and Leadership Commitment
• Inclusive Policies and Practices
• Ongoing Education and Training
• Accountability and Measurement
• Partnerships and External Engagement
• Advocacy and Activism
• Transparency and Communication

Together, these components affirm our steadfast dedication to foster a fair and inclusive environment as we shape our culture, where all staff, residents and visitors feel valued, respected and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and experiences, in our community; a place where everyone belongs.

The past has taught us many things and we know for certain that when one door closes, another door opens. Remember, we are at this point now because those who came before us did not give up. Let’s use this moment in time to remain united as we build the framework for new doors, open them and keep them open for the future generation.

We will continue to intentionally engage our community and celebrate and accept each other for the unique characteristics that make up our identity.

To those impacted by these societal setbacks, we stand beside you and we stand up for you.                      

We The People Means Everyone.

Sincerely,

                                         

David Brown                                                                                Mark Beggs

Vice President                                                                              President and CEO
Chief Information and Equity Officer