A new city ordinance would protect the LGBTQ community against discrimination.

During the Wichita City Council meeting on Tuesday, council members discussed an anti-discrimination ordinance and presented an amendment to it, adding eight lines regarding enforcement of anyone who violates guidelines. Members passed the ordinance four to three, banning discrimination in the city based on things like race, religion, sex and age.

Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple says implementing guidelines like this could help boost our economy.

“I think when we talk about the importance of this, it’s appropriate to have some emotion come out because the reality is we’re normal people up here," Whipple said.

Some council members turned down the proposal, saying the amendment is rushed.

Several people stood up in front of council members and shared their testimonies and experiences with discrimination.

“What happened today shows us why we need an ordinance. The stories, they are heartbreaking and that’s why this is needed,” says Kerry Wilks, the chair of Equality Kansas.

Jackie Carter, the pastor of Table of Hope, said, “It’s extremely important that we have in place ways that every single person can be protected and honored.”

The new ordinance will allow the city attorney to receive complaints and hold hearings regarding anti-discrimination based on things like age, race, sex and religion. They would also be allowed to issue fines and both would be enforceable through municipal court.

“For Wichita to grow and thrive, we need to be a diverse city and a city that champions all of Wichitans, particularly those who might be facing discrimination,” Whipple said.

Several state and federal laws are already in place banning discrimination but none protect people based on gender identity and sexual orientation. The city ordinance would protect the LGBTQ community against discrimination.

State leaders are grateful for city leaders who step up and have hard conversations implementing important change

“Wichita is the 50th largest city in the U.S. and it’s a good thing that here we’re going to be able to take the lead of protecting the LGBTQ community for the state of Kansas,” Kansas Representative Stephanie Byers said.

The second reading of the ordinance will be held on July 6 at City Hall.