High Points: Bi-coastal baseball
The Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees will face off in the World Series for the first time since 1981.
Austin Colbert/The Aspen Times
Aspen’s updated non-discrimination ordinance will take effect on Friday, Oct. 25, following its approval by the Aspen City Council on Sept. 24, according to a Thursday news release.
The ordinance builds on the city’s longstanding commitment to equality and inclusivity, marking the most significant update to its anti-discrimination laws since 1977.
Aspen first made history with Ordinance 60 in 1977, passing the state’s first anti-gay discrimination law. This milestone protected the rights of local residents and set a precedent for broader legal battles, according to the release.
The city later played a pivotal role in Romer v. Evans, a landmark Supreme Court case on sexual-orientation discrimination, further cementing its reputation as a leader in civil rights advocacy.
The original 1977 law prohibited discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, and other factors such as employment, housing, public services, and accommodations. The updated ordinance expands upon this foundation, modernizing the language and aligning Aspen’s laws with current state and federal anti-discrimination protections while maintaining local control.
“This update reflects Aspen’s values and ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive community,” Aspen Mayor Torre said in the release. “We’ve made sure the language is modern, comprehensive, and reflective of today’s standards, while still honoring the groundbreaking steps our city took nearly five decades ago.”
The ordinance update process involved extensive community outreach over the past year. The city engaged business owners, property managers, and residents through public meetings, online forums, and other channels to gather input on the proposed changes. Thousands were invited to contribute, ensuring that the updated law reflected the community’s evolving values.
Key changes in the updated ordinance include the addition of new protected classes, clearer guidelines for proving instances of discrimination, and stronger mechanisms for addressing complaints. The ordinance also provides enhanced avenues for individuals seeking legal recourse for discriminatory practices.
Aspen City Council believes the new ordinance will continue to uphold the city’s high standard of fairness and equal treatment for all residents and visitors. For more information or to access the full text of the updated ordinance, visit aspen.gov.