Important facts about Annise Parker's Bathroom Ordinance

"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart."
Galatians 6:9

From Texas Values:

5 Things Everyone Needs to Know About Houston's November “HERO” Vote On Tuesday, November 3rd, Houston voters will finally have a chance to vote for or against the controversial LGBT “Equal Rights” Bathroom Ordinance (or HERO), known as Proposition 1 on the ballot. The election is already drawing national attention as it will have a tremendous impact on future religious freedom battles across the country. All eyes will be on Houston. The vote comes after a more than yearlong campaign by Houston Mayor Annise Parker toillegally disenfranchise voters and intimidate opponents, including efforts to silence Houston pastors by attempting to subpoena their sermonsand private church communications. A unanimous Texas Supreme Court ruled against the Mayor in July, ordering the Council to stop enforcement of the ordinance and “comply with its duties” to allow Houstonians to vote on the issue. With Election Day closing in, a thorough analysis reveals the ordinance is about giving local government new power to force private individuals and businesses to affirm homosexual conduct and actual or perceived “gender identity” under threat of serious criminal penalties. Openly lesbian Mayor Parker admitted as much during the original debate over the ordinance in 2014, when she said in her own words ‘This [ordinance] is about me.’ Here are five key points about the ordinance that all Houston voters should consider: The ordinance will allow men access to women’s bathrooms, shower rooms, and locker rooms (any “place of public accommodation”). The ordinance would force employers and private business owners to violate their religious and moral convictions. The ordinance promotes government-backed discrimination by seeking to criminalize opposition to homosexual and transgender behavior. The ordinance equates race with sexual conduct. The ordinance increases government interference in the private sector by mandating employment of homosexual and transgendered persons. CLICK HERE to view our full analysis of the ordinance. Early voting begins on October 19th and the last day to register to vote is October 5th. Houston voters will also have a chance to vote for Mayor and City Council in the election. Our friends at the Houston Area Pastor Council are hosting a Candidate Forum this Thursday, September 17 at Houston’s First Baptist Church (more details here). We encourage all Houstonians to ensure they are registered and prepared to vote in the November 3rd election. Click here to visit the Harris County voter registration page.