cityXtra Magazine

HISTORIC Atlantic Beach Passes the First HRO Protections for LGBT in North Florida

By David William Vandygriff

In a small portion of Jacksonville known as Atlantic Beach with a population of 12,000 history was made in North Florida this evening. A long awaited day with over a year for hard work from Judy Sheklin, Dan Merkan and many others the passage gave the first protections for LGBT in any North Florida city. A combined effort of HRC, We Are Straight Allies, Equality Florida, and Jacksonville Coalition for Equality.

The Atlantic Beach City Hall was left only with standing room and many communities lined

the walk ways around the outside the room. Opponents and supports crowded the small towns City Hall wanting to be heard and witness history. Even at 8:30 individuals were still lined up to speak for and against the HRO. Former Jacksonville Mayor, John Delaney spoke in favor of protections.

Laura Riggs, Co-Creator of We Are Straight Allies spoke

...because nothing is more important than our humanity.

"There is no hierarchy of oppression...I cannot afford to believe that freedom from intolerance is the right of only one particular group. And I cannot afford to choose between the fronts upon which I must battle these forces of discrimination, wherever they appear to destroy me. And when they appear to destroy me, it will not be long before they appear to destroy you." --Audre Lorde

Judy Sheklin, President of Jacksonville NOW, spoke and urged an unanimous vote in support of the HRO protections for LGBT.

President of PFLAG Jacksonville, Debbie Carter attended tonight's City Hall meeting and spoke on the importance of protections within our local communities for LGBT.

A motion to delay the final vote was brought forth this evening due to the absence of City Councilman Jimmy Hill but failed to pass. Councilman Daughetry attempted an amended that would limit the public accommodations portion of the HRO protections, but withdrew the motion after discussion. 

James Edddy Jacksonville City Council District 7 Candidate attended an spoke in support of HRO change to protect LGBT.  

"I'm very proud of my commissioners who voted for it with no strings attached. It's been a long haul, but I'm glad we stood united and I hope that we can continue to move forward," said City Commissioner Maria Mark.

"It is time to serve the community and that time is now." Mayor Carolyn Woods of Atlantic Beach just before she called the LGBT inclusive HRO for a vote. The final vote was 4-0 in favor of the HRO. A truly historic day in North Florida as equality wins.