'The city council sent a clear message that Indianapolis values all of its citizens and will tolerate discrimination against no one,' said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese.

WASHINGTON - The Indianapolis City Council passed protections last night that expand the city's Human Rights Ordinance to include protections against discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

"The city council sent a clear message that Indianapolis values all of its citizens and will tolerate discrimination against no one," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "Indianapolis is another great example of a city in the middle of America that is moving the country closer to equality and fairness for all Americans. This success was possible because of the depth and breadth of a coalition that included a broad range of groups."

"This victory shows what can come from a united community," said Kathy Sarris, president of Indiana Equality. "Indiana Equality is excited by the work that the Human Rights Campaign and the Equality Federation did to support our efforts here in Indianapolis, and look forward to working together in the future."

A similar measure failed by an 18-11 vote in April. HRC worked with Indiana Equality on getting members to send out e-mail action alerts, on having national leaders call city council members and on collaborating with the supportive business community.

The Human Rights Campaign is the largest national lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender political organization with members throughout the country. It effectively lobbies Congress, provides campaign support and educates the public to ensure that LGBT Americans can be open, honest and safe at home, at work and in the community.