Gay rights organizations and a coalition of supporters are expected to rally Monday at the state Capitol against two bills they say give businesses a “right to discriminate” if it offends their religious convictions.
Rep. Gordon Klingenschmitt, R-Colorado Springs, is presenting a bill that would protect “artists” from civil rights complaints if they refuse to do something they disagree with, citing the case of a Denver baker who refused to make a cake that she said demeaned gays.
Another bill, sponsored by 17 Republicans would put into law that “no state action may burden a person’s exercise of religion.”
Gay rights organizations and other supporters are planning to rally against the bill at 12:30 p.m. Monday in the West Foyer of the Capitol, before the 1:30 hearing.
“If these bills were to be passed, it would send a message that Colorado businesses and business owners do not welcome diversity in their customer base and makes us look unfriendly,” said Diedra Garcia, president of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Denver, which is participating in the rally.
Klingenschmitt said Friday the issues are being misinterpreted by opponents.
“My bill is very narrow, and it simply protects artists so they can’t be forced at government sword to make government-approved art,” he said. “It protects their right to opt out.”
Joey Bunch: 303-954-1174, jbunch@denverpost.com or twitter.com/joeybunch
