Group Calls Order Overdue and Says General Assembly Should Now Act to Ensure
Fairness in Housing, Employment and Public Services
COLUMBUS, OH –
The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio today applauded Governor Ted
Strickland for signing an executive order that protects Ohioans working for the
state government from job discrimination based on their sexual orientation and
gender identity. This executive order marks the first time gender identity
discrimination has been banned by an Ohio governor and restores an earlier order
by former Governor Richard Celeste banning sexual orientation
discrimination.
ACLU of Ohio staff attorney Carrie Davis said,
“This is a wonderful first step for a state that has been ranked dead last in
passing legislation guaranteeing fair treatment for lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender Ohioans.”
Davis added, "Unfortunately, many Ohioans
still face discrimination in private sector jobs, housing and access to public
services. The Ohio General Assembly should act immediately to pass legislation
that will extend protections to those who are most in need of
it."
Despite a long history of anti-LGBT legislation on the state
level, various communities have taken action to prevent discrimination based on
sexual orientation or gender identity. In 2004, the city of Cincinnati repealed
Article XII, which allowed employers to discriminate against LGBT employees or
possible employees.
Following this victory, the Cincinnati City
Council passed a human rights ordinance ensuring that residents will not be
discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Various other Ohio cities, including Cleveland and Columbus, have passed similar
legislation.
These victories in Cincinnati came after many
residents realized the laws were negatively impacting the city’s economy and
public perception.
Davis said, "The perception of many
professional people outside of the state is that Ohio is not welcoming to gays,
lesbians, bisexuals and transgender individuals. When businesses and talented
professionals look to relocate to different areas, many skip over Ohio because
they do not want to deal with possible discrimination. Laws that show that
discrimination against LGBT people will not be tolerated can only enhance Ohio’s
ability to attract new businesses and professionals."