Last Call

I know I bemoan Kentucky politicians, but the people of this state, like most Americans, are basically hard-working good folk who are just trying to get by.  And every now and then they'll surprise even me.

Some 83 percent of Kentuckians believe gay people should be protected from discrimination in the workplace, in housing and public places such as restaurants, according to a survey released Monday by the statewide Fairness Coalition. That is an increase of 18 percentage points since 2004, when a similar survey was conducted.

"I think the numbers will shock people across the state," said Chris Hartman, director of the Fairness Campaign, one of five groups that are part of the umbrella coalition that works for equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Kentuckians.

Hartman said he was astounded at the level of tolerance reflected in the answers to 10 questions in the survey.

"I believed the numbers were going to be good, but with all of them hitting the 80s or sometimes 90s (percent), that was surprising," he said.

What made the difference since 2004?

"The times have simply changed," Hartman said. "More people have gay, lesbian or transgender friends or family members who have come out. That has changed the way people think across Kentucky."

Good for us, Kentucky.  Five out of six believe in workplace equality?  I'll put those numbers up against any other state.