Volusia County has become the latest Florida county to make it illegal to discriminate against people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity in employment, housing, or places of public accommodation like restaurants or bars. The anti-discrimination ordinance passed 6-1 on May 19.
The group heard about a dozen speakers on the issue and about three dozen supporters wore red shirts. None of the speakers were opposed to the measure, although the council did receive a letter opposing it.
Councilwoman Joie Alexander was the “no” vote, saying she doesn't support discrimination but the ordinance is unnecessary.
Councilman Josh Wagner originally proposed the measure about two and half years ago, during his campaign.
“I had assumed that something like this was already in place,” Wagner said. “I didn't know someone could go to rent an apartment, show up with their partner and get turned down, or get kicked out of a restaurant because they might be gay or lesbian. You just don't think stuff like that still happens today, but it does.”
Wagner also proposed a domestic partner registry which is on hold.
“It hasn't been brought back up yet but I would love to see it and would be all for it,” he said.
Wagner said he has his eye on future discrimination-fighting ordinances.
“I'm going to”¦ start thinking of anything else we can do, and for other [minority] groups as well,” he said. “I want to expand protections for any [minority] groups from discrimination.”
Wagner said the anti-discrimination ordinance just passed will pave the way, making future protections easier to obtain “now that the formula is set up.”
The measure takes effect July 1.
