ABC13 News: “Duke University School of Law Professor Darrell Miller said the ordinance could be a pre-cursor to the introduction of national legislation. Buncombe County is now the seventh community in North Carolina to enact such an ordinance.
“This is an example of what we might think of as blue localities in red states,” said Professor Miller. “Sort of planting their flag of what good public policy is with respect to gay, lesbian and transgendered individuals.”
Miller added that often local ordinances like this set the stage “as an attempt by localities to change the conversation statewide, and hopefully nationwide.”
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“It’s 2021,” said Leah Baker, who owns Artisans on Main in Weaverville. Her gallery is now in its fifth year showcasing work from 60 area artists. “It’s time to get past this block that people keep running into. I see no reason to discriminate against people, no matter what their orientation is, sexually, or their personal life.”
An Asheville Chamber of Commerce report showed 80% of responding businesses felt the county would not have to fine businesses because they already comply with anti-discrimination requirements.
Artist Jim Metlicka moved to Weaverville with his partner six years ago. He showcases his ceramic work inside Leah Baker’s store.
“To be in an area where this ordinance passed is incredible,” said Metlicka. “We came from a place where we weren’t really welcome.””