Emanuel Seeking To Lure N.C. Businesses To Chicago Over Law Blocking Anti-Discrimination Rules
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Mayor Rahm Emanuel said he's trying to lure businesses and conventions away from North Carolina, after that state enacted a new law eliminating anti-discrimination protections for lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender individuals.
The new law in North Carolina not only seems to clear the way for discrimination based on sexual orientation or identity, but it also requires transgender people to use restrooms based on their gender at birth.
Emanuel has ordered a ban on non-essential city travel to North Carolina.
"That's because North Carolina's values are one of exclusion … and intolerance versus tolerance and inclusion, and I think it's wrong," he said.
The mayor also said he's targeting North Carolina businesses that might not want to remain in an atmosphere like that.
"I've already been on the phone with one individual convention about thinking about Chicago as a better place for them than North Carolina," he said.
Emanuel said he started luring While Foods' warehouse from Indiana after that state passed a so-called "religious freedom" law that raised concerns about LGBTQ discrimination. Whole Foods has agreed to move its Munster distribution center to the Pullman neighborhood, along with 200 jobs.