Arlington Town Meeting Unanimously Passes Gender Identity, Expression Protections

Photo Credit: Joe Lipovich, Patch Staff

ARLINGTON, MA—With a thunderous wave of support, Arlington Town Meeting passed Article 18 Monday night, which expands equal protection to cover gender identity and expression in Arlington.

Passing by a voice vote, article 18 now requires that gender identity and expression be included in Arlington's protected classes against discrimination. Town meeting thunderously supported the passage of the article, preventing it from going to an electronic vote.

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There never seemed to be any doubt the article would pass in Arlington, but uncertainty still remains in the State house. Gov. Charlie Baker has maintained a neutral stance on the Equal Rights bill (which would prohibit discrimination against transgender people in public settings), stating that his decision depends on the final detail of the bill.

As a result, Baker was recently booed off the stage at a Spirit Magazine Dinner due to his hesitance to support the legislation fully.

In a historic vote of support, a transgender pride flag was raised at Boston City Hall by city officials. Mayor Marty Walsh tweeted that the flag will continue to fly until "everyone is equal in MA."

Goldsipe believes that Arlington's decision will send a message to state lawmakers.

"Arlington's unanimous vote last night shows state lawmakers how much support there is for the bill," Goldsipe added.