HOUSTON – The Houston City Council continued to support the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO) today, rejecting a move to repeal the nondiscrimination protections and instead sending it to the ballot for a vote this Nov. 3.
Reacting to the news, the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, Equality Texas, Texas Freedom Network, Freedom for All Americans, and the Human Rights Campaign issued the following statement:
“The Houston Equal Rights Ordinance reflects the core Houstonian values – that no one should face discrimination because of their age or race, their status as a military veteran, or their sexual orientation or gender identity. The City Council voted on this ordinance last year, and it enjoyed enormous support from elected officials, businesses big and small, civil rights groups, and a diversity of faith leaders. Over the coming months, we intend to send a clear message that voters in Houston will reject any and all attempts to strip these needed protections away from their friends and family members.”
Concerned citizens, members of civil rights groups and representatives of the faith and business communities voiced optimism that Houstonians would vote to retain the ordinance this November:
“As a Christian, my faith teaches me to love my neighbor as myself,” said Pastor Rudy Rasmus, Co-Pastor of St. John’s United Methodist Church. “When I search my heart, I believe we are all called to treat others with dignity and respect. Protecting others from discrimination is a way for me to live my faith and lead my congregation to be open and welcoming to all. I believe it’s what Jesus calls me to do.”
