Earlier today, The Topeka Capital-Journal ran a story on the Lawrence Human Relations Commission’s decision not to add language to discrimination clauses regarding gender identity. The Kansas Equality Coalition has been pushing for the addition of language to Lawrence human rights provisions since earlier this year that would be more inclusive of “actual or perceived” gender identity (essentially, preventing discrimination against transgendered individuals).
One of the leading voices in the Lawrence City Commission against this new language has been Vice-Mayor Mike Amyx. When asked earlier this year why he opposed the change in an interview with the Lawrence Journal-World, Amyx had this to say:
First of all I’m am opposed to the addition of gender identity to the city’s human relations ordinance. One thing I have always believed in is that items such as gender identification should be a function of the state. In answer to the second question you have [regarding what it would take for him to change his mind], maybe it is just my lack of knowledge or understanding about the entire issue. Like anyone else, I can be further educated on the issue, and maybe this will help make more of an informed decision.
As of yet, Mr. Amyx has not yielded on his opposition to the protection of gender identity. A quasi-rally is being organized to protest his position at an upcoming meeting of the KU Student Senate, where Mr. Amyx will be speaking as part of a regular series of open forums.
For those interested in attending and supporting the protection of all individuals, regardless of gender identity, this will occur on Wednesday, December 2nd, in the Kansas Union. The meeting will begin at 6:30, and Mr. Amyx will be speaking around 7:30.
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