Tomorrow, Boulder sets the stage for the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, reaffirming a commitment to sexual and gender diversity. Recognized annually on May 17, this day comes with a significant historical context as it marks the moment in 1990 when the World Health Organization declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder. The city looks to honor its LGBTQ+ population, promoting belonging, inclusion, and resolute equality. Boulder City's announcement details its stance against discrimination and violence targeted at the LGBTQ+ community.
Notwithstanding the day's celebration, LGBTQ+ individuals still face discrimination, especially in housing, employment, and healthcare. Filing a discrimination claim is made possible through Boulder's Human Rights Ordinance which can be done in any language. According to City of Boulder, "The Human Rights Ordinance specifically prohibits discrimination in three areas: Housing, Employment, Public accommodation in places such as stores, restaurants, health clubs, and movie theaters".
The ordinance provides local protection, standing as a bulwark, particularly for categories like sexual orientation, gender variance, and genetic characteristics, protections sometimes absent at state or federal levels. Originating in 1972, it has evolved to encompass an extensive list of prohibited grounds for discrimination. Spanning from race, religion, and sex to mental disability and source of income, the law in housing also includes protections for individuals regarding pregnancy, parenthood, or those with the custody of a minor child.
Spearheading the city's support systems for LGBTQ+ residents, several community resources have been highlighted. Rocky Mountain Equality, in operation since 1994, provides education, advocacy, and services to the community. Individuals can learn more about their work through their website. Also contributing to the economic prosperity and diversity is the Boulder County Chapter of the Colorado LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, which has been facilitating connections and promoting LGBTQ+ business communities since its establishment in 1992. Besides, One Colorado works tirelessly, bringing to the forefront the advocacy for LGBTQ+ equality in the state. Resources and information on these initiatives are readily available online for those interested.
