Phoenixville Passes Anti-Discrimination Ordinance

PHOENIXVILLE, PA -- After weeks of debate and more than a year of planning and research, the Phoenixville borough council passed an Anti-Discrimination Ordinance at a recent meeting, becoming the 40th municipality in Pennsylvania to adopt a measure of that nature.

The ordinance codifies various protections for LGBT and minority communities in the borough, particularly in relation to housing, employment, and other areas.

The council voted 6-1 to pass the ordinance. The ordinance reached the floor at the council meeting by previously passing a 6-2 vote at a public hearing last month. Councilman Jon Ichter dissented on each occasion, repeating that he supported the notion of the ordinance but expressing strong concerns with logistical, legal, and enforcement issues.

Under the new ordinance, a five-person panel will address any potential discriminatory issues that arise. The ordinance's preamble reads as follows:

"In order to ensure that all persons, regardless of actual or perceived race, color, sex, religion, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender orientation, familial status, marital status, age. physical disability, mental disability, use of guide or support animals or aides, enjoy the full benefits of citizenship, and are afforded equal opportunities for employment, housing, and the use of public accommodations..."

>>Phoenixville Council Votes To Hold Anti-Discrimination Ordinance Public Hearing

Versions of similar ordinances have been in place in Harrisburg since 1982. Royersford has recently proposed a similar measure. Kennett Square passed a measure earlier this month.

>>Phoenixville Council To Vote on Anti-Discrimination Ordinance

Patch file photo