City of Meridian to ‘Add The Words’

It's very likely you've heard of the 'Add the Words' movement here in Idaho. It's basically a movement led by activists that advocates for "adding the words "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" to the state's human rights act.

The journey toward state-wide acceptance continues. However, thanks to a "monumental" decision for the City of Meridian, they're one step closer to their goal. According to KTVB, Meridian City Council voted 4 to 2 to pass an "anti-discriminatory ordinance based on sexual orientation and gender identity".

According to KTVB, the ordinance:

ensures all people regardless of sexual orientation and/or gender expression/identity enjoy the full benefits of citizenship and are afforded equal opportunities for employment, housing and use of public accommodations.

There were those in attendance that were all for the proposal and those who were against it. Ultimately, the ordinance passed. Who knows if the state of Idaho will follow in Meridian's footsteps.

For now, anyone who feels they are being discriminated against would have to take the first step of filing a claim. Then comes mediation with the city attorney. If the issue can be resolved through mediation (correcting the action, participating in training, etc.) then no charges will be filed. However, according to KTVB, if a complaint can't be resolved through mediation, the report will be investigated and the party in question could face a $250 fine. Likewise, a fine can also be imposed on someone found to be making a false claim.