COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio is trying to make lemonade out of Indiana’s lemons.
As lawmakers in the Hoosier State scramble to modify the state’s new “religious freedom” law, Ohio Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Columbus mayoral candidate and other municipal leaders from around the state wanted to let people know Ohio is open – and open-minded – for business.
Governors and lawmakers in Indiana and Arkansas are trying to calm down a growing political backlash concerning their religious objection laws that businesses and other critics consider anti-gay.
But Brown and his fellow Ohioans took advantage of the fact that Ohio is one of 31 states with no such law on the books.
“Ohio will not join this wave of discrimination. We’re open for business to everyone, everywhere, regardless of whom they love or how they worship,” Brown said at a Wednesday news conference.
He was joined by Columbus City Council president Andrew Ginther (pictured, far right), a Democratic mayoral hopeful; Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley and Canton Mayor William Healy
“While some communities are turning back the clock on equal rights, Columbus is focused on being the most welcoming, inclusive and diverse city possible,” Ginther said. “I look forward to the day when the rest of America can embrace equality like Columbus has.”
Downtown Indianapolis will have an increased police presence during the NCAA men’s basketball Final Four this weekend amid protests over the law signed last week by Gov. Mike Pence, which prohibits any laws that “substantially burden” a person’s ability to follow his or her religious beliefs.
Critics contend it is designed to shield businesses and individuals who don’t want to serve gays and lesbians. Lawmakers are working on language to address those concerns, but some college sports figures have already announced they are boycotting the Final Four.