Page 16 - Spring 2015

PROUD TO PROMOTE
DIVERSITY
into law in October and it was enforced for the first
time less than a year later.
2010
Back in California, there had been several legal
attempts to over-turn Proposition 8 and campaigns
had raised millions of dollars to support the over-
turning of the legislation. Many famous names
had also stated their opposition to the proposition
but meanwhile the conservative right was also
strongly campaigning in favour of the constitutional
amendment as well. In one of the court actions,
District Chief Judge Vaughn Walker overturned
Proposition 8, stating it is “...unconstitutional under
the Due Process Clause because no compelling
state interest justifies denying same-sex couples
the fundamental right to marry.” However, from
seemingly nowhere and for no apparent reason,
the United States Court of Appeals overturned the
decision and Prop 8 was given an indefinite stay.
In the early 90s, Bill Clinton was keen to find a way
to allow LGBTs to serve their country if they wished.
However, there was still strong opposition, and so
his administration introduced the ‘don’t ask, don’t
tell’ policy (DADT). Although this seemed like a
Proud to
support diversity
As one of the area’s largest employers
at Bath & North East Somerset Council
we employ nearly 6,400 people in a vast
range of jobs.
The opportunities are huge whether
you’re pursuing a professional career,
looking for a worthwhile local job,
interested in flexible working, looking to
return to work or just starting out.
16