KANSAS CITY, Mo. — On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark decision, extending protections against workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
“I think it really allows the queer community to just show up to work, bring their full selves,” said Lance Pierce, founder of Outspoken, a group that works to help foster discussion around LGBTQ issues around Kansas City. “Focus their energies not just managing discrimination or managing their identities, but to drive business growth and pushing the company forward."
Locally, some hope to ride the momentum of change, pushing Missouri lawmakers to protect the LGBTQ community in all aspects of life.
“In the last few years, the Supreme Court has told LGBT Americans that we can be married and that when we get back from the honeymoon we’ll still have a job,” said Rep. Greg Razer of Jackson County’s 25th District. “However, here in Missouri, we might get back from the honeymoon to our job but not have an apartment to live in."
While Monday’s ruling protects the LGBTQ community from workplace discrimination, Razer said Missourians can still be legally discriminated against in housing and social settings.
“Every year I heard so many stories that had their sexual orientation thrown at them,” said Char Daniels, treasurer of LikeMe Lighthouse, one of several Kansas City organizations focused on inclusion. “(Gays) ran out of neighborhoods or run out of apartment complexes.”
The Missouri Nondiscrimination Act — which could offer more protections to the gay community — has failed to pass in 22 tries. Razer plans to introduce the legislation for the 23rd time next session.
"What we have to do now is get the political courage in Jefferson City to enact the laws that reflect the hearts and minds of Missourians and Americans,” he said.
*Editor's Note: This story has been updated to reflect Char Daniel's title and that LikeMe Lighthouse is no longer a community center.
