The Munster Town Council took a step toward protecting people against all forms of discrimination by passing a human rights ordinance on first reading Monday.
Although the ordinance could have been formally adopted that night, council members have legal questions over its language and want more time to study it, but essentially it is all in place.
Council President John Reed, R-1st, urged patience, explaining to the overflow crowd advocating for the law’s passage that it is a two-step process — and important it can withstand a legal challenge.
Receiving a 4-0 favorable vote on first reading with Councilman Joe Simonetto, R-3rd absent, the human rights ordinance will be voted on again April 18.
The We Are Munster organization, formed with the purpose of advocating a human rights ordinance, and a number of Munster High School students also in attendance, said the town is on the right path.
We Are Munster member Paul Rotatori pointing out the diversity of the people in attendance, who hope to see their belief in equality for all reflected in the laws of their community.
“We Are Munster is excited to show the rest of Indiana and Chicago that we are open to all for business,” he said. “As many of our letters of support from local Munster businesses detail, the standards outlined in this ordinance are already requirements for their staff and vendors.”
From the town’s largest employer, Community Hospital, to small family businesses, such as Dance Gallery and Three Floyds Brewery. they have championed a human rights ordinance for Munster through letters of support, according to Rotatori.
The Rev. Quincy Worthington, pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church, said he had heard from those who did not want him up at the podium Monday.
“We’re fighting for the heart and soul of this community … a community welcoming of diversity,” he said.
“Let’s not wait for the state to act,” said former State Rep. Mara Candelaria Reardon, explaining the town has responsibility to take action now to protect the rights of its citizens, visitors and people who do business there.
Legalizing equal protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) and other groups, Munster modeled its ordinance after a new human rights law in downstate Carmel.
Munster would make it illegal “to obstruct someone from entering a business, entering into a contract, obtaining and maintaining employment or participating in any type of program or service available to the general public on the basis of race, sexual preference, disability or gender identity in the town of Munster.”
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Religious worship and clergy engaged in religious activities, non-for-profit clubs organized exclusively for religious purposes, and private gatherings not open to the public are noted exceptions to the law.
Councilwoman LeAnn Mellon, R-2nd, wondered if parochial schools should be added to the exceptions, and Reed wants a legal gender definition of a restroom included.
“We want the town attorney to study all legalities,” he said. “Should we have more exceptions, less exceptions?”
Jim Masters is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.