Tiny Kentucky Town Passes Fully Inclusive Non-Discrimination Measure
January 29, 2013 by Carolyn Simon
The tiny town of Vicco, Ky., population 335, isn’t generally much of a newsmaker. But it’s making headlines now as the smallest town in Kentucky – and, perhaps, the country – to pass a ban on discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Vicco is part of Perry County, where 80 percent of voters supported Mitt Romney in November. The City Commission voted 3-1 to pass the ordinance, which prevents discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations. Openly gay Mayor Johnny Cummings listened to debate on the issue, but would only have voted if there had been a tie.
“We want everyone to be treated fair and just,” said Commissioner Claude Branson, 56, a retired coal miner.
The town received a request to consider passing the non-discrimination ordinance from the Fairness Coalition, which fights for LGBT equality in Kentucky.
Read more about Vicco in the New York Times.
HRC’s newly released Municipal Equality Index also celebrates progress in cities around the country. Learn more about the MEI at www.hrc.org/MEI.
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