Houston residents vote on anti-discrimination ordinance tomorrow

Houston residents vote on anti-discrimination ordinance tomorrow

WBEZ brings you fact-based news and information. Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the stories that matter.
A anti-discrimination ordinance is up for a vote in Houston. Because it prohibits discrimination in public accommodations, critics have come out loudly against it, saying it will let trans people use bathrooms of their choosing. (Ted Eytan/Flickr)

Voters in Houston, Texas, are divided over a ballot question aimed at preventing any discrimination in areas such as housing and employment.

But the bill has caused an uproar because critics say it would let transgender people use bathrooms that align with their gender identity.

The bill includes language prohibiting any discrimination in the use of public accommodations.

Houston’s mayor, who backs the bill, and conservative pastors have been fighting over the anti-discrimination ordinance in court since the city council passed it last year.

As a result, the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance, or HERO, will be put before voters to decide.

Houston Public Media reporter Florian Martin joins Here & Now’s Jeremy Hobson to discuss the impending vote.

via Here & Now