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Governor Wolf to Launch First Statewide LGBTQ Affairs Commission

Governor Wolf to Launch First Statewide LGBTQ Affairs Commission | Newtown News of Interest | Scoop.it

Governor Tom Wolf today will sign an executive order creating the Pennsylvania Commission on LGBTQ [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning] Affairs, the only one in the nation.

 

“The creation of the commission on LGBTQ Affairs is one step of many we have taken to ensure obstacles are removed for anyone who is facing an unfair disadvantage based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression,” Gov. Wolf said. “It’s a step we took together with our stakeholder and advocacy groups and one that those involved asked for – a commission to help coordinate and drive statewide equality efforts.”

 

The 40-member commission will be led by executive director Todd Snovel. Most recently the Assistant Dean for Engagement and Inclusion at Lebanon Valley College where he led the team working with students in the co-curricular experience and initiated campus-wide efforts in equity, diversity, and inclusion, Snovel also teaches college-level courses on the studies of genders, sexualities, and identities.

 

“Today’s announcement is timely and important, but also not the end of our efforts to create a Pennsylvania that espouses inclusion and diversity in all that we do,” Gov. Wolf said. “The efforts of the LGBTQ work group, established early in my administration, are recognized in many accomplishments that will continue and that group’s work will move forward as a function of this commission.

 

“When I became governor, we saw that change was needed and we made it happen. Better yet, we are still making it happen and will do so until every Pennsylvanian can live, work, love, and thrive in our state with an assuredness of support and safety.”

johnmacknewtown's insight:

If only there was a state law that banned discrimination against the LGBTQ community, local municipalities would not have to pass anti-discrimination ordinances that filled the gap!

 

At the July 11, 2018, Newtown Board of Supervisors meeting, John Mack proposed that Newtown Township adopt an anti-discrimination ordinance similar to neighboring municipalities (e.g., Yardley; read "Yardley Borough Passes Local Anti-Discrimination Ordinance") to protect from discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations, etc. Town solicitor Mr. Sander will provide a draft of an ordinance for a future agenda item.

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Newtown News of Interest
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