Today the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, congratulated Kalamazoo voters in their decision to uphold Ordinance 1856, a measure that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. The ordinance won by a margin of 62 to 38.
“I applaud the people of Kalamazoo for embracing equality for all,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “Sexual orientation and gender identity have no place in employment decisions, access to housing, or public accommodations. Each of us is entitled to security in our daily lives regardless of who we love, of who we are. Thank you One Kalamazoo for your outstanding efforts and rousing success.”
In June 2009, the Kalamazoo City Commission adopted amendments to the city’s non-discrimination ordinance in the areas of employment, public accommodations, and housing that added sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of protected classes. Opponents of the ordinance were successful in placing the ordinance on the ballot. By voting yes on Ordinance 1856, Kalamazoo residents were able to ensure that everyone has a remedy if they experience discrimination.
