East Grand Rapids Adds Sexual Orientation to Nondiscrimination Ordinance

The City of East Grand Rapids will be adding sexual orientation to its nondiscrimination ordinance which already bans discrimination based on race, religion, and age.

The city commission voted unanimously Monday night to add sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of protected classes.

Mayor Amna Seibold told our friends at WZZM-13 that amending the ordinance this way closes a gap in the community.

There was this gap, and it was time to close this gap and to include the fact that we will not discriminate on anyone based on gender or sexual orientation," Mayor Seibold said. "It was just time to include it. We want everyone to feel included, to feel welcome in East Grand Rapids, and this is one way to show it.

The amendment goes into effect March 26.