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TO: Mayor Richard C. Irvin
FROM: Michele Clark, Director Equity Diversity & Inclusion
DATE: 05/31/2023
SUBJECT:
Requesting approval of a Non-Discrimination Ordinance for City Officers, Employees, Appointees and in City Contracts.
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this ordinance to protect and safeguard the rights and opportunity of all persons to be free from all forms of discrimination, including discrimination based on real or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or familial status.
BACKGROUND:
This ordinance demonstrates our commitment to promoting the public health and welfare of all persons who live and work in the City of Aurora. Currently, Chapter 22 only has the Human Relations Commission ordinance. The City is looking to enhance this Chapter with this ordinance.
DISCUSSION:
A non-discrimination ordinance establishes a legal framework that prohibits discriminatory practices in several areas. It sends a clear message that discrimination is not tolerated. In addition, the ordinance aligns with the Mayor's objectives of promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.
We are also looking to update internal policies through our human resources handbook to adopt policies that promote non-discrimination.
Fostering inclusion creates an environment where individuals can freely express themselves, participate in and contribute to the overall well-being of Aurora. From an economic development perspective, establishing clear protections against discrimination enhances the city's reputation and appeal thus attracting businesses, investment, and talent.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
A non-discrimination ordinance demonstrates our commitment to equity, diversity & inclusion. It safeguards the rights and dignity of all residents, promotes connectedness and trust, attracts businesses and plays a vital role in fostering a vibrant diverse and thriving community.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
I request the proposed ordinance be enacted.
cc: Rules Administration and Procedures
CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
ORDINANCE NO. _________
DATE OF PASSAGE ________________
title
An Ordinance amending Chapter 22 Code of Ordinances Pertaining to Harassment and Discrimination Prohibitions.
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WHEREAS, the City of Aurora has a population of more than 25,000 persons and is, therefore, a home rule unit under subsection (a) of Section 6 of Article VII of the Illinois Constitution of 1970; and
WHEREAS, subject to said Section, a home rule unit may exercise any power and perform any function pertaining to its government and affairs for the protection of the public health, safety, morals, and welfare; and
WHEREAS, this new Ordinance allows enforcement by the city for different types of discrimination; and
WHEREAS, this further consolidates and amplifies current policies and extends to city officers, employees, appointees and any vendor or contractor that has a city contract. )
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Aurora, Illinois, as follows:
Section One: That Chapter 22 shall be and hereby is amended as set forth in Exhibit A.
Section Two: That this Ordinance shall be in full force and effect, and shall be controlling, upon its passage and approval.
Section Three: That all Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed insofar as any conflict exists.
Section Four: That any section, phrase or paragraph of this Ordinance that is construed to be invalid, void or unconstitutional shall not affect the remaining sections, phrases or paragraphs of this Ordinance which shall remain in full force and effect.
Section Five: That the City Clerk and Corporation Counsel are hereby authorized to make any non-substantive, clerical or formatting changes and amendments to Exhibit A as necessary for codification and updating of this Ordinance in Municode.