City Receives Discrimination Complaint Regarding Local Business
The City of Traverse City has received multiple notifications of discriminatory language issued from a local business within the City of Traverse City. Several notifications referenced the City’s Non-Discrimination Ordinance, adopted in 2010, that states; It is the intent of the City of Traverse City that no person be denied the equal protection of the laws; nor shall any person be denied the enjoyment of his or her civil rights or be discriminated against because of their actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, height, weight, marital status, physical or mental disability, family status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
“We are disheartened to hear of any discriminatory behavior in our region. As a community, we are responsible to take care of one another and speak up for one another. The City of Traverse City has valued itself on providing a safe environment for all people,” stated Traverse City Mayor Richard Lewis.
“The actions of one business owner do not reflect the values of the citizens of Traverse City. Regardless of any court cases decided since then, city residents voted almost two to one in support of protecting LGBTQIA+ rights in 2011. That is who we are. We are a community who welcomes all and stands with neighbors, especially our LGBTQIA+ folks as they find themselves under attack,” said Traverse City Mayor Pro-Tem Amy Shamroe.
The City’s attorney will investigate this matter based upon the relevant legal standards including the City’s Non-Discrimination Ordinance as well as recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions and State legislation.
“We understand the seriousness of these complaints and in light of the recent Supreme Court rulings, as well as recent legislative changes at the State level, the complaint requires diligent review of the law and how that may apply to the business in question,” said Lauren Trible- Laucht.