Philadelphia, November 3, 2016 – In light of recent events regarding discrimination in local bars and restaurants in the “Gayborhood,” I have introduced companion bills that would enforce the commercial activity licenses based on businesses abiding by the Fair Practices Ordinance.
Mayor Kenney, Councilman Mark Squilla, and myself, along with a room filled with concerned citizens last week, listened to strong testimony before the Human Relations Commission from members of the LGBTQ community about the discrimination they’ve endured.
By adding this legislation to the already existing Fair Practices Ordinance against discrimination in public accommodation, employment, and housing, will prohibit businesses from acquiring or possessing the commercial activity license they would need in order to operate within the City of Philadelphia, if they do not adhere to those requirements.
“Although laws alone cannot foster a culture of inclusion, we must come together to protect and celebrate our fellow citizens and challenge those who seek to discriminate.”
The Department of License and Inspections would be authorized to deny or revoke a commercial activity license for failure to comply with the requirements under the Fair Practices Ordinance.
Read the bills:
Amending the Fair Practices Ordinance-Commercial 11-3-2016
Amending the Philadelphia Code-Non-Commercial Discrimination 11-3-2016
Watch Councilman Green discuss these bills during the Stated Meeting of Philadelphia City Council:
###
Councilman Derek S. Green, Esquire is currently serving his first term as an At-Large member of Philadelphia City Council. Green is Chair of Council’s Committee on the Disabled and Persons with Special Needs. More information at www.phlcouncil.com/DerekGreen
