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Updated
September 4, 2009

 

Corey Ellis has been targeted by a whispering campaign that claims he is homophobic and opposed to gay marriage. Here are his answers to the questionnaire that he filled out for GAES Magazine, culled from the article by Albany Observer.

Corey Ellis on LGBT Concerns

Q: What LGBT issues are you familiar with, and what is your stance? What have you done to support the LGBT community in Albany or elsewhere? What would you do as Mayor to support the LGBT citizens in this city?

A: Workplace Equality: I will use my leadership to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace, emphasizing a non-discrimination policy. All City employees will receive written materials and in-house training to increase awareness of SONDA. I support the GENDA act.

Human Resources Functions: Albany's HR dept. will be fully aware of the impact of the above mentioned laws with regard to the administration of benefits, as well as responsibility with regard to employees who posess a valid same sex marriage license from any jurisdiction.

Marriage Equality: I support marriage equality. I voted in support of a Common Council resolution that called upon the NYS Senate to enact Marriage Equality. I am in favor of the repeal of the federal Defense of Marriage Act.

Don't Ask, Don't Tell: I support the repeal of this federal policy, I find it unfair and prejudicial to gay and lesbian members of the Armed Services.

Health Services: We need to ensure that our city residents have access to all medical services including treatment for HIV+ residents on a non-discriminatory basis.

Hate Speech: I am opposed to hate speech. I attended the rally at city hall opposing Rev, Phelps hate speech. I also support youth anti-bullying efforts. I frequently visited Albany High School, at the invitation of the principal, to talk to students in an effort to model good behavior.

Q: How do you reconcile your duties as a civil servant with your religious beliefs if/when there is a conflict?

A: I strongly support the separation of church and state as provided for in our constitution. My personal religious views will not influence my duties under the law, or my responsibilities to the citizens of Albany.

Q: Do you or will you have openly LGBT staff members on your administration?

A: I have no staff as a councilmember. As Mayor, I will ensure that my administration consists of diverse (with regard to race, sex, age, national origin, sexual identification, gender identity or expression and religious practices), qualified and professional individuals.

Q: Do you have any LGBT relatives?

A: While LGBT friends and relatives may help one understand the discrimination LGBT members face, we all have a responsibility to ensure that all residents of our city are able to live lives free of discrimination and harassment.

For how other mayoral candidates past and present filled out the forms, read the rest of the GAES Magazine article here.

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