Friday, January 9, 2009

GLBT Supporters Rally in Oakland

Supporters of changing Allegheny County's anti-discrimination laws will rally tomorrow in Oakland. A proposed ordinance would add "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" to the list of characteristics that are considered protected.

Sue Kerr, a co-organizer of the rally, says people who have not been subject to this type of discrimination don't realize how serious it is. She says she once left a job because of disparaging remarks her supervisors made about her sexual orientation. Kerr is a lesbian.

The proposed ordinance appears to be backed by a majority of the County Council, although four members have withdrawn their support. Opponents to the measure say it could lead to an increase in frivolous lawsuits against businesses. A public hearing on the proposed change is scheduled for January 15th.

Tomorrow's rally begins at 2 pm at Schenley Plaza.

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