School leaders received numerous reports that former high school English teacher Curtis Johnston was “dating” a student but failed to intervene, complaint says
The proposal would expand the definition of illegal sexual contact between prison staff and an inmate to include kissing, groping
Washington is one of 12 states without enforceable state standards or oversight — that won’t change in 2026
Anchorage Mayor Dan Sullivan had one week to decide whether to support an ordinance approved by the Anchorage Assembly banning discrimination based on sexual orientation. After seven days of receiving thousands of phone calls, e-mails and other messages and listening to heated public hearings, he vetoed the ordinance. His reasoning? Sullivan doesn't believe discrimination by sexual orientation exists in Anchorage, reports Don Hunter in the Anchorage Daily News.
The veto frustrated supporters, who have been pushing for gay rights in Anchorage since the 1970s. Many waved rainbow flags outside City Hall Monday in protest of the mayor's decision.
Assembly Chairwoman Debbie Ossiander voted against the ordinance, worrying it would force businesses to create unisex bathrooms and alter their facilities in other ways.
But Spokeswoman Jackie Buckley of Equality Works, a coalition supporting the ordinance, said the mayor could have used the ordinance to stimulate business:
“This was an opportunity. It was good for business, so Anchorage could attract and retain the best employees and customers. This is a giant step backwards by the mayor, not seeing that.”
The assembly approved the ordinance with a 7-4 vote last week, one vote short of the super majority necessary to override the mayor's veto.
Now it's back to the table for the assembly, which has three weeks to draw up a new, more compromising ordinance.
– Emily Linroth
The story you just read is only possible because readers like you support our mission to uncover truths that matter. If you value this reporting, help us continue producing high-impact investigations that drive real-world change. Your donation today ensures we can keep asking tough questions and bringing critical issues to light. Join us — because fearless, independent journalism depends on you!
— Jacob H. Fries, executive director
DonateCancel anytime.
Advocates say boosting insurance pay would help expand programs for vulnerable pregnant people
School leaders received numerous reports that former high school English teacher Curtis Johnston was “dating” a student but failed to intervene, complaint says
The proposal would expand the definition of illegal sexual contact between prison staff and an inmate to include kissing, groping
Washington is one of 12 states without enforceable state standards or oversight — that won’t change in 2026
If you cover criminal justice in the Pacific Northwest — or want to — we’re hosting a free virtual training that may be useful to you and your newsroom
Subscribe to our weekly newsletters and never miss an investigation.
