Jackson, MS – HB 1523, the anti-LGBT law that allows public officials, business owners, and service providers to refuse service to any individual based on three specific religious beliefs about gay marriage, transgender individuals, and sex before marriage, has officially become law of the land. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit has denied the request for a rehearing with the full panel in Campaign for Southern Equality v. Bryant III. HB 1523 is set to take effect on October 6, 2017.
The following statement can be attributed to Jennifer Riley Collins, Executive Director for the ACLU of Mississippi:
“HB 1523 is the most repugnant law of its kind in the United States. It is an insult to our nation in the fight for equality for all and to the ideals held by so many in the Hospitality State. HB 1523 is on the wrong side of history. We hope the U.S. Supreme Court will take up Barber v. Bryant to ensure that all Mississippians are protected.
“HB 1523 is a step backwards for the state of Mississippi. This controversial religious objection bill has attracted criticism from across the U.S. and around the world. It is aimed at targeting the LGBT community, but it also affects everyone who calls Mississippi home or travels through our state.
“Under HB 1523, Mississippi would codify a law designed for the pure purpose of inflicting harm and protecting no one. State legislators chose to victimize the LGBT community and others impacted rather than ensure equal treatment under the law as the Constitution requires. This discriminatory law needlessly pits neighbor against neighbor and deprives Mississippians equal access to ordinary government services to which hard-working members of our state are entitled. The ACLU of Mississippi and our partners will continue to fight for the rights of all.”
If you or someone you know has experienced discrimination, please share your story with us by calling us at 601-354-3408, by email to office@aclu-ms.org, by posting on our Facebook page, or on our website at www.aclu-ms.org. There, you will also find vital information and resources to help you know your rights.
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