In an email on Friday, Ruth Glover, Executive Director of the Kansas Human Rights Commissions, stated that in light of the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Bostock v. Clayton County, the Commission will "begin accepting complaints based on 'sex' discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations wherein allegations include discrimination based on LGBTQ and all derivatives of 'sex'."
"In these tumultuous and uncertain times, this is welcome news for LGTBQ individuals across the state of Kansas," said Michael Poppa, Executive Director of the Mainstream Coalition. "Countless individuals and families no longer need to live in fear of losing employment or refused service in the public sector, based on who they are or who they love. We are finally afforded the same protections under the Kansas Constitution as our straight, cis-gendered friends."
In the email, Glover went on to state that a "guidance document will be submitted to the Commission Board for their review and approval at a date in the future, but yet to be determined." A re-post including the text of Glover's email may be found on the Mainstream Coalition Facebook Page.
"This is a long time coming. We must take a moment to celebrate this win, and recognize those who have been advocating for LGBTQ+ equity in Kansas," continued Poppa. "However, our fight is far from over. In addition to the lack of other important protections and a number of harmful practices that still remain in Kansas, this will be yet another issue used to mobilize the ultra-conservative voting block in Kansas as we head into the November Election."
Our fight is far from over, but with your help we can build a stronger Kansas. Act today so we can celebrate our victories in November!
Thank you for your continued support of the Mainstream Coalition and our shared vision for a stronger Kansas. Please stay safe and remember to #domorethanvote in 2020!