County rejects pledge to not discriminate against gays


Kalamazoo County leaders narrowly rejected a request to add a written pledge to county employment policies that rejects discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

The proposal lost in an 8-9 vote during Tuesday's meeting of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners.

It drew support from all the county board's Democrats -- David Buskirk, Eva Ozier, Robert Barnard, Brian Johnson, Frank Thompson, John Taylor and Daniel McGlinn -- and from one Republican, Joe Van Bruggen.
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Gay-rights supporters speak out against ballot issue
BRUCE SCHREINER
Associated Press


LOUISVILLE, Ky. - A lesbian couple went public with their relationship Wednesday to "put a face" on the consequences of a proposed state constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriages.

Standing side by side, Kim Peurrung and Beth Bates told a group of gay-rights activists that the proposal could deny them joint health care coverage and other benefits enjoyed by Kentucky couples.

"We would like to have the same constitutional protections that any Kentuckians have to pursue a relationship and not have to worry about what you can and can't have," Bates said.


Gay-rights proponents promised a vigorous campaign this fall to try to defeat the proposed amendment on the Nov. 2 ballot. The proposal also would deny legal recognition of civil unions.