A Pattern of Disturbing Reversals
Released: March 10, 2016
Phoenix, Arizona: The LGBTQ Consortium is deeply concerned by the recent pattern of seeming reversals in local political leaders’ support for equality and respect for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans* & Queer (LGBTQ) individuals in Arizona.
The hateful, bigoted comments made by Phoenix Councilman Michael Nowakowski to a group of Christian pastors shows clear political pandering and a lack of integrity that is unacceptable. In the past, Councilman Nowakowski has stated he supports equal rights for all. However, based on the recently released video, it is clear that Councilman Nowakowski does not support equal rights for Trans* individuals or the right for everyone to marry.
In a separate but also troubling incident on Tuesday, the Scottsdale City Council approved an ordinance that would protect the LGBTQ community when it comes to hiring practices but only city government agencies would be held accountable to the ordinance. The City Counsel made a decision to not hold privately owned businesses or city contractors accountable to abide by the ordinance. This flies in the face of what other cities are enacting across the country and shows Scottsdale to be unwelcoming to LGBTQ individuals as residents or visitors to their city.
As the LGBTQ Consortium continues to stand for health and wellness of the LGBTQ community, these actions are not conducive to a fair and equal Arizona. Please support the Consortium in our stand against the vitriol and continued discrimination put forth by our elected officials. Find out how by emailing: info@LGBTQConsortium.com.
Contact:
Julie Soto
LGBTQ Consortium Chair
info@LGBTQConsortium.com