KINGSTON – Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger Monday signed an executive order to protect transgender individuals and prevent discrimination. She signed the order to coincide with International Transgender Day of Visibility, observed annually on March 31.
The executive said she signed the order due to concerns about rhetoric and actions at the federal level targeting the transgender community, and should Washington try to block the state and county, New York would do everything in its power to fight it.
“It is clear to me that it is not a just a violation of not just our State Constitution, but our Bill of Rights and our Constitution,” she said. “You can’t discriminate against specific members of our community. That goes against the very grain of our American democracy.”
The executive order directs the county Department of Human rights, working with the county Human Rights Commission, to conduct education and outreach to promote a cultural of respect and inclusiveness and prevent discrimination against transgender and all gender diverse individuals in housing, employment, education and other areas.
“In these uncertain times, when too many marginalized people feel afraid and unsure, it is more important than ever that we loudly and clearly affirm our support – not only for all members of our community, but especially for those whose rights and very existence are being targeted,” said County Legislature Chairmen Peter Criswell. “Ulster County is committed to ensuring that every person is seen, valued, and safe.”
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