With Pride,
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Related articles
- The Ordinance, Ii (dgsmith.org)
- Boise Approves Transgender-inclusive Non-Discrimination Ordinance (dgsmith.org)
With Pride,
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Also published on Bilerico.com
A poll in this week’s Helena Independent Record asks the question “Does Helena need a non-discrimination ordinance?” This is seemingly in response to the order of business currently before the Helena City Commission – an ordinance of non-discrimination [pdf].
“State and/or federal law prohibit the denial of civil rights or discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, marital status, familial status (solely for housing), and physical or mental disability. In addition to these protections, it is the intent of the City of Helena that no person shall be denied his or her civil rights or be discriminated against based upon his or her sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.”
Yeah, kind of a big deal for Montana.
At first, the numbers were fairly even on both sides – then those in favor of the ordinance outnumbered those opposed.
By hundreds.
Typically the IR polls receive about 500 respondents total, but it appears that some conservative blogs, websites and facebookers have called in their forces to vote (in this very unscientific poll) against this ordinance currently being considered by the Helena City Council.
While I’m not sure that this is a huge issue (the poll, not the ordinance), it irks me that those opposed are marshaling the forces of discrimination across the country to weigh in.
Well, turnabout’s fair play. Vote here – and show Helena that the nation is watching.
Boise just did something Helena was terrified to do – made discrimination against anyone because of sexuality and gender identity illegal.
The Boise City Council unanimously approved a nondiscrimination ordinance for the city of Boise Tuesday evening.
“… Big win for equality in Boise,” the city tweeted Tuesday.
The ordinance, proposed by Council President Maryanne Jordan and Council member Lauren McLean, prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression in employment, housing and places of public accommodation in the city.
There are exceptions for religious corporations, associations, education institutions and societies. The U.S. Government and state of Idaho and any of their departments or agencies except the city of Boise are also exempt.
During a packed public hearing on the ordinance in November, the Council heard from 60 people (who) supported it and 12 opposed.
The new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2013.
Read the full ordinance here.
It includes perceived sexuality and gender identity. Which is amazing for any city.
I just can’t believe Boise beat Helena to the punch…. Or maybe I can.
Sigh.