PHILADELPHIA – Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations (PCHR) and Office of LGBT Affairs released the following joint statement on the Supreme Court Ruling on Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission:

Today, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Colorado baker who refused to make a wedding cake for a same-sex couple. Although we are disappointed in this decision, it is limited in scope. The Supreme Court made its determination based upon a record of perceived hostility toward religion by the adjudicative body. The Court specifically declined to forecast whether Plaintiff would have prevailed on its claim in the absence of such hostility.

Rue Landau, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations said, “Let me be clear, today’s Supreme Court ruling does not change the way businesses must operate in Philadelphia. Places open to the public cannot turn away anyone because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, or any other protected category.”

Amber Hikes, Executive Director of the Office of LGBT Affairs said, “The Office of LGBT Affairs and the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations will continue to fight to protect the rights and liberties of all Philadelphians, because no one should ever be refused service because of who they are or who they love.”

The PCHR has been protecting people from discrimination based on their sexual orientation for over 35 years. In making any determination in its cases, the PCHR always considers religious objections neutrally and fairly. This decision simply strengthens our resolve to continue enforcing our law and fighting against discrimination in all forms.