KVAL 13 - Eugene, OR
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February 3, 2005
New Transgender Code
By Dana Rebik

Eugene -
Multnomah County, and the cities of Bend and Beaverton have all
recently adopted anti-discrimination codes for transgendered
residents.  The City of Eugene could follow, if a code written by the
Human Rights Commission passes this spring.

According to one local transgendered student, it's much needed in the
community.  Maceo Persson was born a woman, but now identifies as a
man.  He says it's been hard finding a job, and wants legal recourse
if discrimination occurs in the future.

Thursday night, the Human Rights Commission is meeting with the city
attorney, going over a new transgender anti-discrimination code.
It's similar to an amendment former mayor Jim Torrey vetoed in 2002.

This time, the HRC is expanding the code to include discrimination in
the workplace, and any city or public area.

"Employers will not be able to fire or discipline employees based on
their gender identification or expression," says Sidney Moore of the
HRC.

Last time, much of the focus centered around restrooms and allowing
equal access for those who are transgendered.  Some folks in the
community are still hung up about it.

"I just don't think it's right to have men dressed as women in the
women's bathroom if there are kids in there," says Shauna Chapin.

The University of Oregon adopted a similar anti-discrimination policy
this fall that applies to all students and faculty on campus.   In
some buildings, they have installed unisex bathrooms.

The HRC meeting starts at 5:30 PM at the Eugene Hotel.  Any
recommendation must be approved by the city council.