Gainesville, FL Voters Turn Down Discriminatory Measure

Supporters celebrate defeat of anti-discriminatory measure.

On Tuesday, March 24, 58% of voters turned down a measure that would have taken away Gainesville government’s anti-discrimination protections for LGBT residents. The challenge began in 2008 when Gainesville’s anti-discrimination ordinance was revised to be inclusive of transgender people.

The revision provides protection from job and housing discrimination as well as allows them to utilize the public restroom of their choice.

High turn out impacts vote.

The same proposed measure would have prohibited Gainesville government from enforcing anti-discrimination laws that protect other groups not specified by the Florida Civil Act, which recognizes race, color, creed, religion, gender, national origin, age, handicap, marital and familial status.

The Associated Press’ article on Gainesville's anti-discrimination laws kept provides a fair and accurate report of the events.