Topeka approves city domestic partner registry

Topeka, Kan. (AP) — The Topeka City Council approved two ordinances aimed at reducing discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, after hearing emotional testimony from both sides of the issue.

The council on Tuesday approved establishing a city domestic partnership registry for same-sex and opposite-sex couples who are not married. It approved a second ordinance that would ban the city from discriminating in employment and hiring based on gender identity. That measure also requires the city to make a good faith effort to provide health coverage for any city employees registered as part of a domestic partnership, The Topeka Capital-Journal reported.

Councilmember Chad Manspeaker, who sponsored the ordinances, said the approval tells the rest of the world "that Topeka is an open, inclusive community and that we welcome all people here and we look forward to grow in that direction."

Topeka is the home of Westboro Baptist Church, which has become infamous for its anti-gay protests.

Both measures were decided after the council rejected a motion to put the issues up for a public vote.

The council chamber was filled to capacity as several people testified for and against the proposals before the votes. Both issues passed with 5-3 votes.

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Information from: The Topeka (Kan.) Capital-Journal.

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The Gayly – May 21, 2014 @ 10:45am