Non-discrimination Ordinance Post-forum Questionnaire Statistics

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120 of the forum participants stayed after the deliberations and filled out the PostForum Questionnaire; Almost everyone, 96%, agreed that “all people, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation deserve to feel and be safe, supported and affirmed;” Nearly as many, 91%, said that “all people, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation are entitled to fair and equitable treatment in places of businesses and housing;” 78% strongly favored enacting a non-discrimination ordinance; 71% said we should provide more educational opportunities regarding LGBTQ issues and concerns; 68% strongly favored the establishment of some sort form of local “Human Rights Commission;” 54% thought it was a good idea to highlight and recognize businesses that support the rights of all individuals; 53% strongly agreed that “individuals should not be isolated or labeled as bigots based on their religious beliefs;” Interestingly, 72% of those surveyed also said that they strongly disagreed with the notion that “opening up public restroom accommodations to transgender people creates real safety issues for women and children;” Also worthy of note is the fact that 57% disagreed strongly that “business owners should have the freedom to make decisions regarding who to serve and not serve based on their religious beliefs;” What’s more, 79% strongly opposed the idea that “the City of Montevallo should remain neutral or silent regarding issues protecting individuals on the basis of their race, age, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity EVEN IF it means that some members of our community are being isolated or ostracized;” Also informative was the finding that 84% of those who completing the questionnaire left with the same opinions they brought to the event. Looking at this another way, the forum may have actually changed the way 16% of those in attendance felt about at the issues.

All in all, it seems this event was a tremendous success. While it didn’t change a lot of minds, it gave everyone an opportunity to express their feelings, as well as better understand the feelings of others. It also helped to underscore the issues at hand and highlight a preferred path forward. Clearly, a non-discrimination ordinance of some sort is the way the overwhelming majority of those at the forum want to go. Of course, they did not weigh in on the specifics of that ordinance, except to say that it needed to protect the rights of all, including members of the LBGTQ community.

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Of course, there were also those at the forum, around 12%, who opposed enacting any laws or taking any action to protect LGBTQ rights. While a clear minority at the forum, these folks expressed a point of view which is no doubt shared by many more in our community – for religious and a variety other reasons. Even so, based on the survey results, the forum was nearly equally divided by those over 40 years of age versus those under 40 (48% to 52% respectively) and was generally diverse according to race (78% Caucasian, 13% African American and 2.5% Hispanic). Therefore, the results of the forum provide a reasonably fair representation of the sentiments of our community at-large. Moreover, the forum was widely promoted and everyone wishing to participate in the deliberations had an equal opportunity to do so. In addition, as was questioned by a couple of folks in attendance, the vast majority of the forum participants were locals (including UM students) – not rabble rousers bussed in to skew the results of our deliberations.

As a result, it seems clear that the next step should be to reconsider some sort of NonDiscrimination Ordinance. Several at the forum suggested the City use the ordinance recently adopted by Birmingham as a guide. Of course, we also have the version proposed by the Montevallo Acceptance Project to consider. My suggestion would be to assign a Council Committee to review possible alternatives and draft a version that meets our community’s needs.

While perhaps not opposing the idea of an ordinance outright, a number of individuals at the forum were concerned with the specific requirements or limitations of such a law. As such, it may be a good idea to hold another community-wide forum to deliberate the pros and cons of the actual ordinance under consideration by the council.

For a more in-depth view of the results of the forum, you may also want to consider the notes taken during the three breakout sessions:      

Difficult to write a constitutionally sound law that is fair to everyone. Better to focus on relationships. Federal law already covers other groups. This law would add more groups to those which are not already protected. Without laws in place to protect everyone’s rights, discrimination will occur. Easier to enforce laws at the local level. Are there examples of individual’s being discriminated against in our community? The answer was yes! Members of the LGBTQ community expressed the fear of revealing their true identity and living open lives due to fear of discrimination. 9

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Passing a law will let people in Montevallo know our community welcomes everyone, regardless of who they are. There was some concern expressed regarding bathrooms and sexual predators. Many times people feel different because they allow themselves to feel that way – not the community’s fault. Adding another law could encourage more frivolous lawsuits against local businesses. New laws won’t eliminate discrimination. We need to stop making new laws and better enforce what we already have. Just because we are different doesn’t mean we are each other’s enemy. Why shouldn’t there be a law protecting LGBTQ rights? Without legal protection, these individuals do not have any legal standing. Ultimately, we will have to educate people to change their hearts and minds. A law is an important signal to the members of the LGBTQ community that they are equals in our community. Members of the LGBTQ community don’t want to be treated equal – they want to be treated special! A new law isn’t meant to persecute Christians or be anti-Christian. In Montevallo, we accept all people. This law would simply protect the equal rights of all of us. A law needs to be in place because that is the only way we can achieve lasting change. It is unfair to suggest that members of the LGBTQ community are asking to be treated special, just like members of the African-American community who support Black Lives Matter are not asking to be special. The truth is many members of the LGBTQ community don’t feel as if they are treated equally. We are all human and we should all be respected and accepted for who we are. If the world was as reasonable and accepting as most of us in the room, we probably wouldn’t need any anti-discrimination laws. Unfortunately, there are those who are not here tonight who are not like us. Laws protect us all equally, no matter who we are. We need to look at the non-discrimination ordinance passed by Birmingham as an example. There were questions about which court would have jurisdiction over a new law. It was suggested it would start at the local level and progress from there. Complaints would require proof and evidence to be supported. What happened to the Bible? Homosexuality is a sin! We need the same protections in place for everyone! Who would decide if someone was discriminated against? Passing a new law will only increase polarity in our community. 10

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Some of the comments tonight seem to suggest that LGBTQ people are not normal. That is not true. We are just like everyone else and we want the ability to be open about who we are and who we love without the fear of consequences. This is not a lifestyle choice – this is how we were born! The ADA provides these sorts of protections to the disabled. Without the ADA, life for disabled individuals would be much more difficult. Even with the ADA, it still takes time for things to change completely. As an example, our city is just now, finally adding ADA compliant sidewalks and streets in our downtown. Promoting equal rights for all is also an important economic development tool. More and more companies recognize the importance of this and only want to locate in communities which respect the rights of all. If members of the LGBTQ community are not discriminated against, why do we need a new law? We had to enact the Civil Rights Act before racially biased mindsets and divisions began to improve in Alabama. Because of the law, we are a much different place today than we were before. Choosing any option other than a new law simply means that we are keeping the conversation going without affecting any real change. Perhaps we could adopt the law on a trial run basis for a year and see how it works. If the law was passed, what psychological or physical harm would it cause to those who say they oppose it? NONE! What was the point in passing the Civil Rights Act if laws don’t make a difference? There is a real problem that needs to be solved. An ordinance is the only way to do that. It is sad that there are preachers in this community who will not stand up for the word of God. The laws against racial discrimination have changed us in Alabama and the same protections need to be extended to LGBTQ individuals. The law protects everyone regardless of their religious beliefs. When you talk about oppression, you need to listen to the voices of the oppressed. It is not a bad thing to have a law that says all people are created equal, no matter what their gender identity or sexual orientation is. Who would this proposed law hurt? There are exceptions in place in these types of laws for religious institutions. An ordinance will tell people unfamiliar with Montevallo that we are different – we are an accepting community. An ordinance is a way to formally honor our fellow human beings. We want everyone in our community to feel 100% safe and free of discrimination of every kind. Why are we hesitant to respect other people as fellow human beings? 11

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Opposition’s Rights Clarity False Accusations Religious Convictions Freedom Protections Afraid of Being Discriminatory Concern of Labels Commission Things getting out of control Changes in leadership effecting Commission (bias) Overkill Being perceived as “hateful” Promoting equality “Second Hand Citizen” Substance Nice community, but not nice people Codifies Avenue for recourse “Gives it teeth” Safe Open dialogue Being aware Recourse Easy to ignore Concerns won’t get voiced No Recourse Can’t get information Inherent bias Policing Ourselves More Information Overcoming Misinformation

You may also want to consider the comments by one of the moderators: Buddy, I thought the community deliberative forum went well on the whole--at least in my group. Based on this group’s discussion, I do think there is a need for further education about the current status of LGBT rights in our state and nation. (See explanation in the summary below). Here is a summary of my thoughts and impressions of our group experience:

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Expressions of good will for the LGBTQ community Almost everyone seemed generally supportive of the LGBTQ community. Many pointed to personal friendships and bonds with others of differing gender identities. Others identified as straight LGBTQ allies.

Doubts that an Ordinance is Needed or that an Ordinance would help However, the group seemed divided over whether or not an ordinance is needed or whether or not it would be helpful. Some were doubtful that discrimination actually exists, and some expressed fears that an ordinance would create tensions that do not presently exist. This last point was countered by references to the Americans with Disabilities Act, stating that the ADA was clearly needed. It was acknowledged that people are sometimes irritated by the regulations in the Disabilities Act, but on the other hand, it was generally acknowledged that the ADA changed the culture in our country toward an acceptance of citizens with disabilities in the workplace. It was stated that the ADA has changed people's attitudes and opened up avenues that did not exist before. Presumably the LGBTQ ordinance would have a similar effect. Are Current Laws and Regulations Adequate? Some maintained that current laws such as the ERA presently prevent discrimination in housing, services, etc. Others maintained that these laws do not protect the LGBT community. However, there was never a clear rebuttal to the claim that non- discrimination laws for the LGBTQ community are already in place. I think further education on this question is needed. It might be good to distribute portions of something like the Wikipedia article on “LGBTQ Rights in the United States to clarify the issue of existing protections. Others spoke of the positive changes in the status of African American and other minorities which followed the ERA and positive Supreme Court Decisions . These changes spoke to the need for an ordinance to similarly protect the LGBT community.

Role of Religion in the Discussion: On the whole, everyone spoke civilly and respectfully, though there were a few more strident voices. Unfortunately, these combative views were couched in references to God's will, the words of the Bible, and to Christianity.

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However, it seemed that most of those who spoke from a religious framework, acknowledge that Christ's emphasis on love and forgiveness should prevail in some fashion when dealing with LGBTQ issues. Several speakers tried to reframe the argument in more secular language, with references to the enlightenment and to 18th c. humanism, the founding fathers, and the like. Developing Consensus?? I had the impression that at the end of our session, there was a developing consensus that favored an ordinance. Some asked how an ordinance would harm those who opposed regulation. Some asked for the specific language of the ordinance, and they were referred to the city website, with the notation that the actual ordinance would be modified by the results of the deliberative forum and any follow up sessions.

Thanks, and Guardedly Hopeful?? I, and I am sure others, very much appreciate the work of the Montevallo Acceptance Project and the City of Montevallo. I am hopeful that a successful conclusion may be in sight.

Finally, you may want to review the tabulated results of the questionnaires themselves:

City of Montevallo Critical Issues Forum Community Inclusivity Post-Forum Questionnaire NOW THAT YOU’VE HAD a chance to participate in a forum on this issue, we’d like to know what you are thinking. Your opinions, along with those of others who participated in these forums, will be reflected in a summary report that will be available to all citizens, including those who took part in the forums, as well as officeholders, members of the news media, and others in our community. 1. To what degree to you agree or disagree with the statements below? strongl somewha somewha y t agree t agree disagree All people, regardless of their gender 96% 3% 0% identity or sexual orientation deserve to feel and be safe, supported and affirmed. All people, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation are entitled to fair and equal treatment in places of

91%

6%

3%

strongly disagre e 0%

not sure

0%

0%

1%

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business and housing. Business owners should have the freedom to make decisions regarding who to serve and not serve based on their religious beliefs

19%

8%

11%

57%

4%

Individuals should not be isolated or labeled as bigots based on their religious beliefs.

53%

24%

10%

8%

5%

Opening up public accommodations to transgender people creates real safety issues for women and children.

13%

5%

9%

72%

2%

strongly oppose 9%

not sure 1%

2. To what degree do you favor or oppose each of these actions? strongl somewha somewha y favor t favor t oppose The City of Montevallo should enact a non78% 8% 3% discrimination ordinance that protects the rights of individuals based on sexual orientation or gender identity regarding free and unfettered access to housing, employment and public accommodations EVEN IF there is the possibility the state may enact legislation making this action obsolete in the future. The City of Montevallo should form a human rights commission to provide mediation when an individual feels his/her rights have been violated in a place of business based on his/her race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or age.

68%

18%

2%

6%

5%

The Montevallo community should provide more education regarding issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity EVEN IF some members of the community directly oppose this education.

71%

13%

8%

5%

5%

The Montevallo community should highlight and recognize businesses that support the rights of all individuals.

54%

21%

6%

11%

8%

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The City of Montevallo should remain neutral or silent regarding issues protecting individuals on the basis of their race, age, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity EVEN IF it means that some members of our community are being isolated or ostracized.

strongl y favor 5%

somewha t favor 3%

somewha t oppose 6%

strongly oppose 79%

not sure 2%

3. During this forum did you talk about aspects of this issue that you had not considered before? 30% Yes 70% No If so, please explain:  -Was brought by my wife, I didn’t know about ordinance idea until tonight, good idea.  -People being misunderstood as discriminatory when they are not.  -Sincerity of the opposition  -The importance of a non-discrimination law was made clearer, both on a symbolic level and at the level of pragmatic legal recourse.  -Although some oppose this ordinance, would it cause them any harm or change them in any way if ordinance was passed.  -Some peoples interpretation of what is acceptable behavior is different. The interpretations often had relevance to their religious convictions which is not part of state workings. Should not be.  -(No)But I have thought about this for a long time.  -View points that I strongly oppose were voiced and elaborated upm.  -The positive aspect of civil rights legislation has made a difference in our civil life. Similar legislation protecting LGBTQ persons could benefit these persons and all of the community.  -They spoke of the positive benefits it would have on our economy industry, which I hadn’t considered before.  -I talked about what would it actually change if you don’t discriminate.  -Those opposed felt that laws are complicated and no more are needed. Another perspective is that laws should not protect sin or what is sinful. There was passion and hatred even as those opposed continued to sat they have gay children and friends. Having gay children does not protect you from being a bigot.  -(No)The fact that many people do not know that LGBTQ rights are actually not legally protected under civil rights.  -Wording that is problematic to religious groups  -This ordinance could be important and helpful to attract business.  -I had not heard concerns from business owners or organizations regarding implementations.  -If I agree, I discover tonight why.  -(No)But I do think it was a good event  -Anger  -I was surprised by the anger from some. 16

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-We talked about the economic benefits and drawbacks that could potentially affect the city. -(No)I am not particularly sympathetic to the idea that it is important to maintain a business’s right to discriminate against the LGBTQ community. -Forming small groups would be awesome for discussing the humanity of LGBTQ people. -Religion and beliefs -I have learned a lot about this matter. -(No) I listened and did not participate in the discussion. I was not comfortable sharing in a large group. -Hearing those with strongly held beliefs asking to not be spoken as if they hate LGBTQ individuals. -I wasn’t aware how adamantly people believe that their god is in charge of everyone. -Yes there were some things that were discussed that I had not heard before. -(No) But I talked with a young lady and it was informative. -That there are no protection to the LGBTQ community

4. Were there ideas or proposals that you tended to favor coming into the forum about which you now have second thoughts? 11% Yes 84% No If so, please explain:  Equality obviously  I overestimated the importance of potential backlash; this band-aid needs to be ripped off; no one stands to be hurt. It became apparent that Christian organizations are plenty equipped to accommodate this ordinance. 5. What can citizens, working together, do in our community to ensure that all people feel and are safe and included regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity?  Enact an expanded non-discrimination law.  Everyone needs to be equal  We need to educate our community about LGBTQ community, Montevallo needs to be inclusive of everyone. Social outreach and engagement.  Pass the law, it helps protect more people.  Ordinance seems like a straight forward first step.  Agree to the NDO  Share views  Education and media coverage  Compromising there is no need for hate and bigotry rising out of fear  Enact NDO  Become more educated and communicate  Pass this ordinance  We can attempt to find common ground and provide comprehensive education for everyone and make it available for everyone in the community regardless of if they don’t agree 17

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Pass the ordinance and education Educate themselves, meet people that seem like foreigners Educate LGBTQ issues Promote education, promote diversity, insure equality Respect each other as human beings. Don’t let your mindset move you to harm another because of a disagreement in personal values. Accept everyone for who they are, everyone is human. Be honest, be open, speak up and educate ourselves and others without biased or religious perception. Raise public awareness and establish safe spaces Make sure that organizations exist to support people, ensure that outreach occurs and try to make connections between people in need and people/organizations that offer support/assistance. Pass a protection ordinance, create communities, educate all in the community and possibly honor businesses and other institutions respecting all humans rights.(i.e. door stickers) Pass the ordinance that protects LGBTQ people as well as the other groups already protected. Increase education there is a great deal of misinformation and bias Possibility future facilitated discussions groups, possibly more educational sessions on LGBTQ issues. The issues need to be clarified If people could just treat everyone like a human being and not so strongly push against people that they want to stereotype. Educating one another would be a long step for this. In addition to community education and acceptance we should pass the nondiscrimination ordinance that protects and supports the LGBTQT community legally

6. Please list anything you feel is important to share regarding this issue that is not included on this survey.  Passing an ordinance will be an amazing accomplishment for the Montevallo Community. Make Montevallo a destination place for people to move to. It will only help bring new people, and much needed diversity and inclusion.  A young woman was directly addressed based on her clothing and was not stopped by the mediators (Room 103)  A young woman was harassed by a community member during the discussion and the mediator allowed it. I am disgusted by this action and will be taking my complaint to City Hall. (Room103)  There are laws protecting all sorts of people, even thought people in this community “treat all people alike” meaning these laws are also unnecessary. But they exist nevertheless. What not having an ordinance for LGBTQ people says to them and me, that they aren’t worthy of protection. Not true.  Remember that personal beliefs/values are subjective! There is no set standard of right and wrong in the world of morality. Ethics 101. 18

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Secularly speaking not everyone is of the same religion nor does everyone have the same beliefs and that why it is important to realize religion can not be a part of this. People can not be forced to believe one thing. I feel that a lot of people were referenced as having the ability to change who they are. We can not change people. We can not fall into fascist and or zealot notions. It will be impossible to achieve 100% agreement on this topic. It is important to do what is morally important and is also reflective of the general level in society is become more open and inclusive socially. Some people will never accept this. The majority of people in this room are in support of inclusive ordinances. People need a law like this. It only helps, could literally save lives. At this time there is no legal recourse for an individual who man be discriminated against in the workplace publicly or domestically. We must create the legal president for such recourse.

7. How many forums of this type have you attended in the past? 46% 0 36% 1-3 48% 4 or more

8. Please select your age. 2% Under 18 36% 18-25

9. What is your race/ethnicity? 0% Asian American 2.5% Native American Other _____________

19% 25-40

48% Over 40

13% Black/African American 78% White/Caucasian

2.5% Hispanic/Latino 0%

5% Prefer not to respond

10. What issue(s) would you like to see addressed in future community forums?  LGBTQ  Hearing more stories from those discriminated against, and hearing feedback and advice from other towns, cities, and communities that have passed similar ordinances.  Sex education  Bullying/hate crimes, environmental justice in Montevallo 19