July 14th, 2025

Dubuque, IA – In a special session held tonight, the Dubuque City Council voted unanimously 7-0 to reinstate gender equality protections in its human rights ordinance, strengthening rights for residents and visitors alike. The move aims to promote fairness and inclusivity within the city.

Council members expressed and remorse and their lack of attention and communication in the process for voting to remove gender identity protections from the ordinance in the previous city council meeting. In a 7-0 vote, the Dubuque City Council passed the ordinance without gender identity in the ordinance.

They also had discussions to consult and include commission recommendations and in future city ordinances.

The updated ordinance prohibits discrimination based on gender identity and expression in areas such as employment, housing, and public accommodations. This change aligns Dubuque with state and federal laws while reinforcing the city’s commitment to equality.