This issue is one of civil rights

8:00 PM Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Thank you, Mr. (Keith) Hawkins, for writing an excellent “Your turn” column (June 28) supporting an ordinance that would end legalized discrimination in the city of Springfield.

Springfield has a diverse population made up of people who are black, white, Asian, Hispanic, gay, straight and more. The principles of fair and equal treatment must be included in the laws governing the city.

A person’s sexual orientation should not be used as a means of discrimination in the workplace or when renting a home, any more than their race, sex, disability, ancestry or age. This issue is, I feel, one of civil rights. It is an issue of fairness and equality in how we treat one another. Cities all around the country, such as Houston, Tulsa and Columbia, S.C., have already passed similar nondiscrimination measures, displaying a progressive spirit of inclusion and an appreciation for diversity.

Our city can grow, not only in population, but also in reputation. I have lived here for 20 years, and there are many talented and generous people in Springfield. I know that we have a significantly large gay/lesbian population and there are many straight voters like myself who support this measure as well. I believe that these voters will support the elected officials who support this effort.

City officials who support continued discrimination will no doubt lose the votes of many bright and hard-working members of the Springfield community. Let’s all encourage the city commissioners to do the right thing.

— NANCY BLACKBURN, SPRINGFIELD

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