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Consider Ideas On Ordinance

Proposed changes to Wheeling’s anti-discrimination ordinance have aroused enormous controversy, with strong feelings on both sides of the issue. The turnout of about 350 people for public hearing on the matter this week was indicative of the depth of interest — and concern.

As drafted, the ordinance would do three things: It would add three categories of people to the list of those against whom discrimination is prohibited. The new classes would be sexual orientation, gender identity and veteran status. The first two are responsible for the proposal’s informal title, the LGBT ordinance.

In addition, the rules would be expanded to include discrimination in employment, as well as housing (covered under the current ordinance).

Finally, the proposal is to give the city Human Rights Commission new power to enforce the rules, including the authority to issue cease-and-desist orders.

Many proponents of the change seem to see it as a litmus test for the entire community. If the new rules are adopted, they will ensure everyone knows Wheeling is a “welcoming” and “inclusive” city.

But if they are not, rejection will brand the community as bigoted, some supporters seem to think.

That attitude worries some people who have honest fears about individual liberties, including that of being able to live as one’s faith dictates. Another concern is about the cost and effort of dealing with unfounded complaints of discrimination.

As written, the proposed ordinance does include some protections. For example, it provides for exemptions for churches.

Additional safeguards are needed, however, some believe.

Most of those speaking at the hearing Tuesday support the new ordinance. But a substantial minority want Wheeling City Council to consider changes.

That does not appear to be the plan at present. Council members expect to hear first reading of the ordinance Dec. 6, with second reading and adoption possible Dec. 20.

It is to be hoped council members did not consider the hearing this week as a mere formality to be gotten out of the way before approving the proposed ordinance as it is written. Concerns and suggestions for improvements should be given genuine consideration — not dismissed as coming from bigots. Many of those who worry about the plan do not do so because they want to discriminate.

Dismissing them as somehow morally wrong would amount in itself to bigotry.

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