FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Anna Nuñez, ACLU of Texas, media@aclutx.org, 713.325.7010
DeAnne Cuellar, Equality Texas, deanne.cuellar@equalitytexas.org, 210.896.9141
Dan Quinn, Texas Freedom Network, dan@tfn.org, 512.322.0545
Dan Rafter, Freedom for All Americans, dan@spitfirestrategies.com, 202.251.7308
Ianthe Metzger, Human Rights Campaign, Ianthe.Metzger@hrc.org, 202.772.3889

Citizens and Civil Rights Groups Support the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO) and pledge to defend it on the November Ballot

HOUSTON – The Houston City Council continued to support the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO) today, rejecting a move to repeal the nondiscrimination protections and instead sending it to the ballot for a vote this November 3^rd.

The following is a joint statement from the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, Equality Texas, Texas Freedom Network, Freedom for All Americans, and the Human Rights Campaign:

“The Houston Equal Rights Ordinance reflects the core Houstonian values – that no one should face discrimination because of their age or race, their status as a military veteran, or their sexual orientation or gender identity. The City Council voted on this ordinance last year, and it enjoyed enormous support from elected officials, businesses big and small, civil rights groups, and a diversity of faith leaders. Over the coming months, we intend to send a clear message that voters in Houston will reject any and all attempts to strip these needed protections away from their friends and family members.”

Concerned citizens, members of civil rights groups and representatives of the faith and business communities voiced optimism that Houstonians would vote to retain the ordinance this November:

Pastor Rudy Rasmus, Co-Pastor of St. John’s United Methodist Church:
“As a Christian, my faith teaches me to love my neighbor as myself. When I search my heart, I believe we are all called to treat others with dignity and respect. Protecting others from discrimination is a way for me to live my faith and lead my congregation to be open and welcoming to all. I believe it’s what Jesus calls me to do.”

Lou Weaver, Transgender Advocate:
“I know Houstonians believe that all people should be treated fairly and equally. That’s why it’s so surprising and shocking to realize that in this day and age, it is actually still legal under our state’s laws to fire a hard-working employee, evict someone from her apartment or deny customers service in a restaurant simply because they’re gay or transgender. Like other Houstonians, we just want the chance to earn a living and be treated fairly in our business dealings without worrying about harassment or discrimination.”

Jenni Tranweaver, Founder/CEO, Jenni’s Noodle House:
“Houston businesses support diversity, fairness and equality. Not only is it the right thing to do, it keeps us competitive. Attracting top talent and keeping Houston a place we all want to live, work and conduct business is one of my top priorities as a business owner.That is why I am confident that voters will uphold the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance in November and I am grateful that our city council will let the people vote.”

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