Most everyone agrees that every American is equal under the law.

Despite the “discrimination” rhetoric, these ordinances are not designed for the benign purpose of ensuring all people receive basic services and equal treatment.

Instead, as we’ve seen in numerous examples across the country, their practical effect is to legally compel people of faith in Christ to accept, endorse, condone and even “celebrate” manifestations of lifestyle choices that deeply offend our right of conscience, our freedom to practice our religion, and to conduct our businesses in a manner consistent with those religious beliefs.

People of faith are being coerced and compelled to promote messages, ideas and events that violate their deepest convictions.

I urge the Town Council to do a Google search and read how these “non-discrimination” laws have destroyed the economic enterprises of young wedding photographer Elaine Huguenin (Elaine Photography); grandma Baronelle Stutzman (Arlene’s Flowers); Pastor Don and Evelyn Knapp (Hitching Post Wedding Chapel); Robert and Cynthia Gifford (Liberty Ridge Farms); Don and Phyllis Young (Aloha Bed & Breakfast); Scott and Nancy Hoffman (Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association).

Need additional examples? These ordinances destroy the lives of hard working Mom and Pop businesses. They require believers to kneel at the altar of the less-than-3 percent privileged homosexual community in order to accommodate their preferences while completely trampling on ours.

Do not be deceived. This creeping “incrementalist” strategy will soon be followed by unisex public bathrooms with “open” gyms or swimming pools. Will you send your daughter in?

Passing this ordinance would be a dereliction of the council’s duty to support and defend the Constitution. As citizens who live with decisions our elected leaders make, I hope you will serve us well by protecting the freedoms that have made this country great.