Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity Task Force

Approved 7/8/2013 SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER IDENTITY TASK FORCE June 17, 2013 – 4:30 p.m. Public Safety Center, 330 W. Scott PRESENT: Lola Butcher, Randall Doennig, Dick Hardy, Dr. Ginger Holczer, Cindy Lear, Rick McLain, Lynn Meyerkord, Rev. Michael Overton, Pam Sailors, Robert Saylor, Sarah Smith, Judge Miles Sweeney; David Trippe, Gary Whitaker Angela Filbeck – Alternate CITY STAFF LIAISONS: Sarah Kerner – Assistant City Attorney, Julie Greer – City Manager’s Office ABSENT: Rev. Steve Gardner, Jeff Houghton, Kelly Johnson – MCHRCR Chairman __________________________________________________________________________ Judge Miles Sweeney called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. The 5/20/13 minutes were reviewed. Rev. Michael Overton moved to approve the minutes as printed, and Lynn Meyerkord seconded. Minutes approved. Employment Sub-Committee update by Gary Whitaker – confirmed all information is contained within the written report. Public Accommodations Sub-Committee by Dick Hardy – confirmed committee’s work has been completed. Health/Transgender Sub-Committee by David Trippe – gave an overview of federal laws dealing with transgender discrimination; statistical evidence of discrimination at the national, state, and local level; and evidence of both physical and psychological harm that comes from that discrimination. Dr. Ginger Holczer discussed the psychological effects of discrimination and the advantages of non- discrimination laws. Pam Sailors reported on the legitimacy and acceptability of discrimination, noting 45 percent of the U. S. population is covered by a transgender-inclusive non-discrimination law, and the problems transgender people when seeking restroom access. Robert Saylor and Lynne Meyerkord reported on discrimination in the area of healthcare. Judge Sweeney requested this sub- committee compile an informational report to submit to City Council. Faith Sub-Committee by Rev. Michael Overton – reported on the process for and the results of the online survey for faith-based organizations located in Springfield. Judge Sweeney said the next step would be for the task force members to identify options for City Council to consider. Next meeting scheduled for Monday, July 8, 2013, at 4:30 p.m. With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 5:54 p.m.