WATCH: Indiana lawmakers are working to undo some of the damage caused by a controversial new law. Adriana Diaz reports.
TORONTO – The largest newspaper in Indiana dedicated the front page of its paper Tuesday to a scathing editorial of the state’s new Religious Freedom Restoration Act.
Most of the front page of The Indianapolis Star was taken up by a large black box, drawing attention to the words “Fix This Now” written in large, capital letters.
The newspaper argues that the legislation, which critics claim allows businesses to discriminate against LGBTQ people, is a risk to the state’s economy.
“All of this is at risk because of a new law, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, that no matter its original intent already has done enormous harm to our state and potentially our economic future,” the editorial reads.
The editorial calls on state Governor Mike Pence to enact legislation prohibiting discrimination in employment, housing, education and public accommodation. It suggests that legislation, and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act can co-exist.
The law, which takes effect July 1, prohibits state laws that “substantially burden” the religious beliefs of a person, business, religious institutions and associations.
The Indianapolis Star is the latest in a growing list of people and businesses opposed to the legislation. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel sent letters to more than a dozen Indiana businesses urging them to move to his state. And Rev. Jesse Jackson called the legislation “offensive.”
A Twitter hashtag, #WeAreIndiana, also went viral following the passing of the law and the newspaper’s editorial. Most of the people tweeting were concerned the law could lead to discrimination and called for it to be repealed or clarified.
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