The City of Orlando recently approved a Domestic Partnership Registry, it was passed unanimously. Now Orange County, the County in which Orlando resides was considering it. Below is the letter the CEO, Christopher Clai sent to her earlier this morning. Unfortunately as of its writing, Mayor Jacobs said she would not permit the registry (article). We are disappointed by her position and feel that Orange County may no longer be a good venue for our growing business. Here is the letter, in its entirety.

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Dear Mayor Teresa Jacobs,

As a business owner who does the majority of their business in Orange County, I felt the need to reach out to you regarding your recent change of heart on the Domestic Partnership Registry.

The Domestic Partnership Registry would help fill a gap for those who have no interest in being married or remarried such as senior citizens who don’t want to divorce a loved one whose passed, or those who currently cannot get married such as gay and lesbian couples, the rights to see their loved ones and get them through difficult times. Many people these days also have no interest in being married, regardless of sexual orientation, which is their choice, and nobody should decide differently for them.

Equality for people of all ages, color, creed, nationality, sexual orientation, and disability is a “god given right”, or in my words a basic right as a human being. As the leader of Orange County, you should be embodying that same principal and protecting the rights of ALL your constituents, neighbors, family, and friends. Unfortunately, your decision showed that you rather continue to discriminate against a minority for no legitimate reason.

Leaders have to make unpopular decisions from time to time, which may upset a small minority but benefits the overall community. In many cases, even that minority who is opposed to the change would benefit. This is one of those moments in time.

There are more pressing matters facing our community than social equality but unfortunately it must be brought up so that our economy and community can continue to move forward. If Orange County does not approve the Registry, Orange County is essentially not supporting its largest city, Orlando, who unanimously passed this same measure because they recognized the importance of it. There is no legitimate or responsible reason not to pass this Registry!

The economy is rapidly changing, and we are moving into an era that discrimination will no longer be tolerated by any individual, for any legitimate reason. It’s time for Orange County to take the initiative to innovate, stimulate the economy, and move forward with this Registry. So will Orange County be a leader? That’s your call.

Equality is good for citizens, good for business, good for everyone. Make the right decision and support the Domestic Partnership Registry.

Peace,
Christopher Clai
CUB Enterprises, Inc.