Human Relations Commission To Hear Testimony On Racism In Philly's 'Gayborhood'
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Philadelphia Human Relations Commission will hear testimony Tuesday evening regarding racism in the "Gayborhood." It comes on the heels of numerous complaints from LGBT people of color.
"This is a historic public meeting," says Rue Landau is executive director of the Philadelphia Human Relations Commission. The agency scheduled the hearing after years of complaints about discriminatory dress code policies at "Gayborhood" bars sparked recent protests and an outcry for change.
"This has been unfortunately an ongoing issue that has bubbled over now and gotten to serious concern," says Landau.
The commission has subpoenaed "Gayborhood" bar owners; numerous members of the LGBT community have signed up to testify. Participants get three minutes to speak and Landau wants as many as possible people as possible to attend.
"We're hoping that this is the first step toward healing in our community," she says. "We're going to hear from as many as possible, and in the end, within 60 to 90 days, issue findings and recommendations."
The hearing is from 6 to 8 p.m. at Liberty Resources at 8th and Arch Streets and will be streamed lived. To register or to submit written testimony email pchr@phila.gov or call 215-685-4670.