Boston, MA (Novembet 3, 2009)–Today voters of Kalamazoo , Michigan passed Ordinance 1856. Originally approved twice by the City Commission of Kalamazoo, opponents forced a public referendum on the Ordinance. The Ordinance revises the City’s existing non-discrimination law to include LGBT people.

With the passage of this legislation, LGBT individuals in Kalamazoo are provided legal protection from discrimination at work, in seeking housing and in enjoying public accommodations such as restaurants and hotels

Statement of Jennifer Chrisler, Executive Director, Family Equality Council:
"Kalamazoo is a leading community in the fight for equality. This Ordinance ensures LGBT families basic protections such as the ability to secure a place to live or eat in a restaurant.. It also enables that LGBT individuals can work and provide for their children and families without the fear of being fired for reasons unrelated to their job performance. The public s support for LGBT people and these basic protections is great for Kalamazoo and adds to the momentum towards full equality for all families across this country. Jon Hoadley did an outstanding job leading the charge and ensuring this passage of Ordinance 1856.”

EDITORS: To book an interview with Jennifer Chrisler, Executive Director of the Family Equality Council, please call or email the media contacts listed below.

About the Family Equality Council
Family Equality Council works to ensure equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender families by building community, changing hearts and minds, and advancing social justice for all families. For more information, visit www.familyequality.org.  

Contact:
Tina Walker-Morin
Senior Marketing & Communications Manager
Family Equality Council
617.502.8700 x226
tina.walker-morin@familyequality.org