06/06/2012

Washington – The Human Rights Campaign, Equality Cincinnati, and Equality Ohio are calling on Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy not to factor one’s sexual orientation or gender identity into their hiring practices. The groups launched the action after Jonathan Zeng, a local Cincinnati teacher, said the non-denominational school rescinded a verbal job offer after calling him and directly questioning him about his sexual orientation.

Cincinnati’s non-discrimination protections do cover sexual orientation and gender identity. HRC recognizes that as a religious school, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy is exempt and did not break any law. But in a day and age where nearly 90 percent of Christians say they believe their faith compels them to support equal protections under the law for LGBT people, the school’s action is wrong and out-of-touch.

“Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy should be promoting an atmosphere that celebrates the diversity God created and instilled in each of us – something their mission statement claims to embrace,” said Dr. Sharon Groves, HRC’s Director of Religion & Faith. “Incidents like this only harm the local community, who have just lost the opportunity to learn from a qualified educator and a person of deep faith.”

Those looking to speak out and call on the Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy to truly embrace their mission and hire the most qualified job candidates can take action via HRC, Equality Cincinnati and Equality Ohio. The online action is available at: https://secure3.convio.net/hrc/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1467.

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

Equality Ohio advocates and educates to achieve fair treatment and equal opportunity for all Ohioans regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity or expression. We envision an Ohio where everyone feels at home and where equality, diversity and inclusiveness are universally valued.

Equality Cincinnati is working for full equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people in Greater Cincinnati, and to prevent discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity.