03-12-12 Council Agenda & Packet

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Human Rights Ordinance Cover Letter—page 2 March 7,2012 In 2009, former Mayor Stephen Luecke issued an Executive Order to ban discrimination based upon sexual orientation in city hiring. The Common Council went on to defeat a proposed amendment to ban employment discrimination based upon sexual orientation city-wide in 2010. It is now 2012, and members of the Human Rights Commission continue to state that they receive reports alleging discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation; however, the Commission has been unable to investigate these reports because they are not empowered to do SO. The Common Council can take action to allow the Human Rights Commission to address this discrimination, and it is the opinion of the sponsors of this amendment that the council should do so. Not only will this promote the fair treatment and equality that South Bend wishes to extend to all citizens, but it will also promote the type of climate that is essential in attracting innovative businesses to our community. We believe it is a matter of basic fairness to amend our city's Human Rights Ordinance to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Doing so will enable the Human Rights Commission to investigate allegations, determine if there is evidence of discrimination, mediate, and try to resolve the issue. Our Human Rights Commission is experienced at this process - we need only give them the power to investigate cases of sexual orientation or gender identity discrimination for them to do so. This issue has been the topic of extensive debate. The proposed legislation has been vetted. We believe the time has come for South Bend to join other progressive cities in Indiana and nationwide in protecting our GLBT citizens from discrimination. Sincerely, Valerie Schey Dr. Fred Ferlic 3rd District Council Member 4i1' District Council Member Tim Scott Gavin Ferlic 1st District Council Member Council Member at Large Attachments