Editorial: Half steps won't fix 'religious freedom' law

This editorial was originally published March 31, 2015.

They're using the right word – "fix" – but will they end up in the right place?

It's hard to tell.

Gov. Mike Pence and House Speaker Brian Bosma each chose that word – "fix" – with purpose Tuesday as they sought to assure Hoosiers, the nation and the world that they and Senate leader David Long can revise the Religious Freedom Restoration Act to ensure it's not a tool for discrimination.

But as of Tuesday night, it was unclear what direction those efforts might head. Republican leaders remained locked away at the Statehouse, working on a concept to retrofit the new law.

We urge, yet again: Do not take half steps.

Half steps pose the risk, quite real and serious, of inflaming what is already an incendiary moment in our history.

For the good of Indiana, take the bold steps needed to send a clear message that our state rejects discrimination. To state emphatically that civil rights can be protected for all while still respecting and preserving the fundamental right of religious freedom.

Every day the pressure grows, with messages of alarm coming from CEOs of major Indiana companies, from all five living mayors of Indianapolis, as well as warnings from the NCAA and high-profile businesses that they may rethink how they do business in Indiana.

It's time to get away from arguments over what RFRA does or does not do. The law can stand. But only if Indiana extends protected legal status for sexual orientation and gender identity.

Indiana's house is in turmoil. But it can be repaired. Let's unite around the cause of both upholding religious freedom and building true safeguards against discrimination.

For all.