Officials in New York State have set their sights on Texas and other states lacking legal protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans, looking to draw new, queer-friendly businesses to the Empire State.
Pointing to the hostile new anti-LGBTQ policies in the Lone Star State, North Carolina and Mississippi, a campaign called Open Doors has been launched, replete with TV commercials now appearing in those unfriendly states, according to The New Civil Rights Movement.
The ads promote New York as “a beacon that welcomes those unwelcome in other places,” and features images of Ellis Island, the Underground Railroad, the fight for women’s suffrage and the Stonewall Rebellion.
“Now, as some in America seem to be forgetting exactly what freedom means, New York State is once again standing up for those who others try to keep down, by welcoming, promoting and applauding all who have so much to offer, giving us the privilege of being known by the companies we keep. So, if you and your business want to be where the true leaders are, where we understand the value of diversity and work to make suer everyone can succeed, join us, grow here, start your business here, and welcome to New York State.”
Another ad tells viewers, “…when love is under attack by hate, we welcome those with big hearts and big visions for what the world can become.” The campaign comes just days after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott pitched his state to British business leaders, hoping to lure away companies concerned about the Brexit vote.
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But while he was looking across the pond, New York’s Gov. Andrew Cuomo was fishing in his backyard, issuing a news release of support for the LGBTQ community in the wake of the murders of 49 patrons and workers at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Fla.
“It is more important than ever that we stand up for the LGBT community and ensure everyone is treated with dignity, fairness and respect,” Cuomo said in the release, which announced the establishment of a memorial commission to create a monument honoring those who died in Orlando, as well as other victims of hate, intolerance and violence.
Watch one of the ads from the Open Doors campaign below.
