City Of San Antonio: Councilman McKee-Rodriguez Requests The Expansion Of San Antonio's Non-Discrimination Ordinance In Newly-Filed CCR

Press release from the City of San Antonio:

October 28, 2021

CONTACT: Imgard Rop, Director of Public Relations
Imgard.Rop@sanantonio.gov | (210) 207-8261

SAN ANTONIO (October 28, 2021) – The District 2 Council Office is seeking to expand the current Non-Discrimination Ordinance by exploring its application in private places of employment and improving current processes to create a uniform enforcement mechanism that will ensure fairness and opportunity for all people within San Antonio.

In 2013, City Council voted to approve the NDO, joining other major Texas cities in codifying protections from discrimination for protected classes. However, the application of the NDO refers out complaints of discrimination in employment by private businesses.

“Today, following a traumatic Texas legislative session and targeted displays of anti-Semitism in our city, we have an opportunity to take a stand and demonstrate our commitment to compassion and equity,” stated Councilman McKee-Rodriguez. “I am excited to introduce these new ideas and I look forward to lengthy discussions about their application as we pursue an expanded Non-Discrimination Ordinance.”

Nationally, occurrences of discrimination are underreported, leaving those experiencing discrimination with limited support. Numerous complainants will either not file a claim or instead opt for costly private litigation. This trend holds true in San Antonio. Since 2013, a little over 100 complaints have been submitted. This may demonstrate a lack of public awareness of the protections afforded under the NDO and the complaint process. Even considering the limited number of complaints filed, very few have made it to the enforcement stage.

"The work to ensure full equity and inclusion must always be seen as a work in progress, and I am delighted to see this council will make the necessary improvement that build on the original intent of the 2013 Non-Discrimination Ordinance," said Former Councilman Rey Saldaña, who represented District 4 during the passage of the original ordinance.

The effort would explore penalties for private businesses found to be in violation of the Non-Discrimination Ordinance and would explore legal support, provided by entities such as Texas RioGrande Legal Aid.

Former Mayor and HUD Secretary Julián Castro shared his support, “Every person deserves to be treated equally regardless of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. But in the absence of state-wide protections against discrimination, local communities like San Antonio have stepped up to ensure everyone in our community is treated with dignity and respect. I applaud Councilman McKee-Rodriguez for introducing a new ordinance to build on our city’s non-discrimination policy.”

This press release was produced by the City of San Antonio. The views expressed here are the author’s own.