Earlier today, Apple and various other corporations made statements in favor of the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO). An ordinance that offers protections to Houston residents regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, HERO prevents discrimination in employment, housing, and public spaces like restaurants.

Apple joins companies like Dow Chemical, General Electric, and Hewlett Packard as supporters of HERO. This news comes just after multiple celebrities including Hillary Clinton, Sally Field, and Matt Bomer voiced their support for the ordinance.

In its statement to Houston Unites, Apple stated the following: "Apple is proud to be a part of Houston with four stores that employ over 500 people. Our stores and our company are open to everyone, regardless of where they come from, what they look like, how they worship or who they love. Apple supports Proposition 1 as it sends a clear message that Houston is focused on a future of inclusion, diversity and continued prosperity."

Proposition 1 will be voted on this coming Tuesday in Houston, determining the status of the ordinance. Should HERO be repealed, Houston will become the largest city in the nation that does not protect its residents against discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, and many more basic human rights.