GOVERNMENTAL CENTER

City of Traverse City 400 Boardman Avenue

Traverse City, MI 49684
(231) 922-4480
Office of the City Clerk tcclerk@traversecitymi.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Benjamin Marentette, City Clerk

(231) 922-4480
tcclerk@traversecitymi.gov

Issued: July 12, 2023

______________________________________________________________________________

City Receives Discrimination Complaint Regarding Local Business

The City of Traverse City has received multiple notifications of discriminatory language issued
from a local business within the City of Traverse City. Several notifications referenced the
City’s Non-Discrimination Ordinance, adopted in 2010, that states; It is the intent of the City of
Traverse City that no person be denied the equal protection of the laws; nor shall any person be
denied the enjoyment of his or her civil rights or be discriminated against because of their
actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, height, weight, marital status,
physical or mental disability, family status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

“We are disheartened to hear of any discriminatory behavior in our region. As a community, we
are responsible to take care of one another and speak up for one another. The City of Traverse
City has valued itself on providing a safe environment for all people,” stated Traverse City
Mayor Richard Lewis.

“The actions of one business owner do not reflect the values of the citizens of Traverse City.
Regardless of any court cases decided since then, city residents voted almost two to one in
support of protecting LGBTQIA+ rights in 2011. That is who we are. We are a community who
welcomes all and stands with neighbors, especially our LGBTQIA+ folks as they find
themselves under attack,” said Traverse City Mayor Pro-Tem Amy Shamroe.

The City’s attorney will investigate this matter based upon the relevant legal standards
including the City’s Non-Discrimination Ordinance as well as recent U.S. Supreme Court
decisions and State legislation.

“We understand the seriousness of these complaints and in light of the recent Supreme Court
rulings, as well as recent legislative changes at the State level, the complaint requires diligent
review of the law and how that may apply to the business in question,” said Lauren Trible-
Laucht.

###

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram  CityofTC  www.traversecitymi.gov