It’s the fourth year a Democrat legislator has sought to pass a statewide bill that would give nondiscrimination protections to all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Utahns. This year, the long-shot bill has the backing of the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, which is hosting a forum on the subject this week. Politics junkies won’t want to miss a Utah County meet-the-candidates night that will host legislators who are running for the U.S. Senate and the governor’s seat. Also this weekend is a candlelight vigil in remembrance of those who worked, lived and suffered downwind from Cold War-era nuclear testing.
Respect Utah
Thursday, Jan. 26
The Salt Lake Chamber has become a powerful backer of a bill sponsored by Sen. Ben McAdams, D-Salt Lake City, that would grant workplace and housing nondiscrimination protections to LGBT Utahns. The chamber’s forum is designed to explore how the bill could be good for businesses across the state. Utah Capitol, 350 N. State, State Office Auditorium, 801-364-3631, Jan. 26, 5 p.m., SLChamber.com
Meet the Candidates
Thursday, Jan. 26
In Utah County, legislators Rep. Chris Herrod, R-Provo, and Rep. Ken Sumsion, R-American Fork, will be talking about their plans for higher office. Herrod, a pusher of get-tough immigration bills, will be talking about his plans to unseat incumbent Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah. Sumsion, who chaired the Legislature’s redistricting committee and is campaigning for more control of public lands, will discuss his run against Utah Gov. Gary Herbert. Orem City Council, 56 N. State, Orem, 801-225-4902, Jan. 26, 7 p.m., for more information e-mail melvalg@juno.com
Remembering Downwinders
Friday, Jan. 27
Friday is the 61st anniversary of the nuclear-weapons testing in Nevada that spread radiation poisoning to downwind communities, like those in southern Utah, inflicting cancer, birth defects and deaths among unsuspecting residents. This event will be a solemn memorial to those individuals, complete with music and talks from local religious leaders. Episcopal Church Center of Utah, 75 S. 200 East, 801-364-2971, Jan. 27, 5:30-6:30 p.m., UtahCan.org