The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) recently filed suit against a popular Lyndonville, Vermont inn after the proprietors refused to host a lesbian couple’s wedding reception. In stark contrast to its reputation as a warm and welcoming establishment, The Wildflower Inn chose to turn the couple away for reasons based on their sexual orientation.
According to ABC News, when Ming Lien-Linsley and Katherine Baker attempted to book their wedding reception at The Wildflower Inn, innkeepers Mary and Jim O’Reilly responded via email that they “do not host gay receptions” because of their “personal feelings.” In response to the inn’s discriminatory behavior, the couple enlisted the ACLU to take legal action and file suit with the Vermont Superior Court.
ACLU attorney Dan Barrett stated that the O’Reilly’s were in clear violation of state civil rights laws by refusing service to Linsley and Baker. He explained, “Businesses open to the general public must serve all customers…they cannot turn people away based on sexual orientation. That section of the law has been on the books in Vermont since 1992.”
Prior to the Wildflower Inn incident, Linsley and Baker indicated only minor experiences with discriminatory behavior. “It is hurtful to see that we are less welcome than the family dog,” said Linsley. But after experiencing such prejudice first-hand, the couple decided to stand up and speak out as many other gay couples have done – a conviction that prompted them to file the suit.
The Wildflower Inn has refused to comment on the lawsuit, but announced on its website that it will no longer host weddings or special events.
