Apple has joined the growing chorus of
companies backing passage of the LGBT-inclusive Houston Equal Rights
Ordinance (HERO).
HERO prohibits discrimination in
housing, employment and public accommodations based on several
characteristics including race, religion, sexual orientation and
gender identity.
Opponents of the law forced it onto
Tuesday's ballot. Early voting ends today.
In a statement to Houston Unites, the
campaign working to keep HERO, Apple reiterated its support for such
non-discrimination measures.
“Apple is proud to be a part of
Houston with four stores that employ over 500 people,” the company
said. “Our stores and our company are open to everyone, regardless
of where they come from, what they look like, how they worship or who
they love. Apple supports Proposition 1 as it sends a clear message
that Houston is focused on a future of inclusion, diversity and
continued prosperity.”
Apple CEO Tim Cook has been a strong
advocate for LGBT protections.
(Related: Apple
CEO Tim Cook: LGBT discrimination holds everyone back.)