NEGAD
Northeast
Georgians Against Discrimination
We are a group of straight and gay members of the Athens community working
together to protect individuals and families from discrimination based on
sexual orientation or gender identity. We seek economic and legal equality
for gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender citizens through education and
advocacy.
- What Has NEGAD
Accomplished?
NEGAD formed last year in response to the proposed anti-marriage amendment
to Georgia’s constitution. In just six months over 300 volunteers joined NEGAD,
and we knocked on over 3000 doors in Athens-Clarke County. These efforts
paid off:
- Athens-Clarke had
the highest percentage of ‘No’ votes on Amendment One in the state – nearly
25% more than the statewide result.
- We built a solid
base for local action, and a voice for gay and straight people alike who
believe that discrimination based on sexual orientation does not reflect
our community values.
- What Do NEGAD
Members Believe?
NEGAD members believe children shouldn’t be denied access to health insurance
or other family benefits because their parents are gay. We also believe
a person shouldn’t be fired, denied the right to rent an apartment, or be
kicked out of a restaurant or hotel simply because he or she is gay.
Unfortunately, sexual orientation and gender identity are still used to
deny these basic rights to many of our neighbors, family members, friends,
and employees.
NEGAD members believe the best community is one where all of its citizens
have basic rights and dignities. Our outreach efforts have shown us
that most Athens residents agree and support our mission.
- We are educating citizens about discriminatory measures that threaten
family stability and individual rights.
- We are working to ensure that basic protections exist for all citizens
in the community. Over the next year, we’ll be working to strengthen
Athens-Clarke County’s non-discrimination provisions and to educate our local
members of the General Assembly about the impacts of anti-gay legislation.
- We are keeping our supporters informed about actions they can take
to further the goal of equality for all families and people in the Athens
area.
- Sign up today as a Member. NEGAD members receive regular updates
by email and newsletter, and will receive action alerts when important legislation
is pending that will affect the community. You will also receive notice
of local events and NEGAD meetings, so you can help make a difference.
E-mail us at NEGAD@charter.net to
join!
- Come to a meeting. NEGAD holds monthly meetings which are open to
all of our supporters. While attendance is not required of members,
it’s the best way to get more involved and to have your voice heard.
Call 706-424-2772 for dates and times of the next meeting. We’d love
to meet you!
- Make a donation. Empower us to
empower others. Please make checks payable to NEGAD, and mail to P.O.
Box 503, Athens, GA 30603.
Gay or straight, we need your help. Sign up today to further equality in
Athens-Clarke County and Georgia!
FOR MORE INFORMATION
- Watch this website at for updates (currently under construction!)
- Write
us at or send donations to: NEGAD, P.O. Box 503, Athens, GA 30603