Controversial anti-discrimination ordinance to be decided

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – Polls opened at 7:00 across West Michigan Tuesday.

While there are a number of important issues on the ballot, the one that's been drawing the most attention in Kalamazoo is the anti-discrimination ordinance.

The city commission went back and forth on it a couple times and now it's up to the voters to decide.

Ordinance 18-56 is designed to prevent discrimination, but it's the addition of two new protective classes, sexual orientation and gender identity, that has ignited a firestorm in Kalamazoo.

Like state and federal law the ordinance protects classes found in most anti-discrimination legislation such as race, color and national origin.

But, the measure before voters Tuesday adds sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of things that are protected.

Those opposed to it say it will actually lead to more discrimination. A big sticking point has been the fact that transgendered men would be allowed to use women's bathrooms.

Those for ordinance 18-56 say that's not the case and most people in Kalamazoo would not notice a difference if the measure passes.

The ballot will ask: Should an ordinance protecting citizens from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations go into effect?