In a letter dated March 30, 2016, the American Kennel Club expressed its concern over the recently passed law that would permit discriminatory practices in employment and public accommodations. Below is the text of the letter sent to Attorney General Roy Cooper.
Mr. Roy Cooper
Attorney General
North Carolina Department of Justice
The American Kennel Club employs more than 200 individuals here in the state of North Carolina where a recently-enacted law has caused widespread concern about discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender expression, particularly for those in the LGBT community.
While the validity of the new law is now a matter for the courts, the American Kennel Club wishes to express our deep concern about the pre-emption of local non-discrimination ordinances that promote equal treatment for all.
The American Kennel Club encourages diversity and respect, and we are proud of our strong anti-discrimination policies that protect employees from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, status as a covered veteran, and any other class protected by federal, state, or local law. Furthermore, we steadfastly extend these protections to our customers and event competitors.
We strongly encourage the state of North Carolina to offer the same protections to of all of its residents.
Yours Respectfully,
Ron H. Menaker
Chairman of the Board
Dennis B. Sprung
President and CEO