Alleged Discrimination at Hazard Pool Sparks Investigation

Several parties are investigating an alleged act of discrimination in Hazard, Kentucky.The two men, who also have developmental disabilities, say they were told to leave the public pool in the Hazard Pavilion because they were a couple. Others, however, say the two were making public displays of affection, which aren't allowed at all in the pavilion."If they're going to have any type of regulation which prohibits public displays of affection, it needs to be applied uniform throughout and not applied to gay men or lesbian women," says  Kentucky Equality Federation president Jordan Palmer. The KEF chapter that covers Hazard is considering protesting.City attorney Paul Collins says it's not yet clear whether the men were discriminated against or were violating pool rules."We have reached no conclusions about any of the allegations. We are only beginning to investigate this matter. I specifically have had no opportunity to speak with the individuals who are making the allegations…yet," he says.The Fairness Campaign has declined to comment until the details become clearer. However, the president says if the allegations are true, it's further evidence that a statewide anti-discrimination law is needed. Currently, only Louisville, Lexington and Covington have laws blocking discrimination based on sexual orientation.The parties involved did not return a request for comment.