WASHINGTON -- The Republican mayor of Indiana's largest city is working to stem the backlash from a new "religious freedom" law, breaking with members of his own party in order to reassure companies that Indianapolis is still a good place to do business.
Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard (R) held a press conference Monday afternoon, giving his first public remarks since Gov. Mike Pence (R) signed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act into law. The measure would allow any individual or corporation to cite its religious beliefs as a defense when sued by a private party and could open the door to businesses refusing to service members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
"Our city thrives because we have welcomed and embraced diversity," said Ballard. "RFRA threatens what thousands of people have spent decades building. And I won't allow that to happen without a fight."
More: GOP Mayor Of Indianapolis Signs Executive Order Protecting LGBT Community
I applaud this GOP mayor. Thank you, Sir. If anyone doubts how dangerous Pence's law is - just read this GOP mayor's words above.
Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard (R) held a press conference Monday afternoon, giving his first public remarks since Gov. Mike Pence (R) signed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act into law. The measure would allow any individual or corporation to cite its religious beliefs as a defense when sued by a private party and could open the door to businesses refusing to service members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
"Our city thrives because we have welcomed and embraced diversity," said Ballard. "RFRA threatens what thousands of people have spent decades building. And I won't allow that to happen without a fight."
More: GOP Mayor Of Indianapolis Signs Executive Order Protecting LGBT Community
I applaud this GOP mayor. Thank you, Sir. If anyone doubts how dangerous Pence's law is - just read this GOP mayor's words above.