In November 2013, a combination partner benefits/non-discrimination ordinance passed the Chattanooga City Council and was signed into law by Mayor Andy Berke.  In August 2014 it was repealed by a majority of the voters.  Now Councilman Chris Anderson is bringing back the non-discrimination portion of the ordinance.  It is up for first reading on July 14. 

The ordinance adds sexual orientation and gender identity and expression to the city's non-discrimination policy for government employees.  Marriage equality doesn't automatically bring workplace equality and there are no federal or state protections in statute for LGBT people.  So the policy is important.  It matches what Metro Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis, and Knox County have already done. 

Advocates are encouraging citizens supporting the ordinance to wear red and attend the July 7 Council meeting.  RSVP at the link.

If your Chattanooga-area business, congregation, or community organization would like to endorse equal protection for city employees, it's easy.  Just endorse it at this form or email us at [email protected] and we'll add your name to a public list of endorsing organizations.