The Flagstaff City Council is moving forward with its civil rights ordinance, offering protections to area residents who may face discrimination due to sexual orientation. The decision was unanimous.
The measure (No. 2013-08) establishes a Civil Rights Ordinance, which will provide protections to people based on their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and veterans status in both employment and public accommodation.
Flagstaff employers found guilty of discrimination could face fines.
Four years ago, the Flagstaff City Council addressed a similar ordinance, but did not move forward toward approval.
The Flagstaff City Council discussed the ordinance January 29, 2013, and gave city staff additional direction in several areas. Council members expressed concerns that the ordinance include language of inclusion of all federally protected classes and that the language of the ordinance not supersede an employer’s ability to establish or enforce a dress code for employees.
Councilwoman Celia Barotz, who has long been a supporter of civil rights protections, made this statement. “I am so proud of all of the remarkable people who made this historic moment possible.”