Mayor Brown signs historic ordinance banning address discrimination in Spokane

Mayor Lisa Brown made history on April 25, 2025, by signing the groundbreaking "Ban the Address" ordinance in Spokane, making the city potentially the first in the nation to implement such legislation. This significant move aims to prevent discrimination against unhoused individuals seeking employment, ensuring that qualified applicants are not overlooked due to their lack of a physical address.

During the signing ceremony, Mayor Brown emphasized the importance of removing barriers to employment, stating, "It's about removing barriers. So everyone has a chance for employment and a successful outcome." The ordinance, sponsored by Council Member Paul Dillon, is seen as a vital step toward enhancing fair hiring practices in the city.

Council Member Dillon echoed the mayor's sentiments, highlighting the personal stories that fueled the ordinance's creation, including one from James Bodie, who shared how employment transformed his life after experiencing homelessness. Dillon remarked, "Housing status should never define someone's potential," reinforcing the ordinance's core message.

The initiative has garnered support from various local partners, including nonprofits and businesses, all working together to create employment opportunities for the unhoused population. Mayor Brown and Council Member Dillon expressed gratitude to these collaborators, noting their crucial role in fostering stability and better outcomes for families and the community.

As Spokane takes this pioneering step, both leaders acknowledged the ongoing challenges ahead but remain optimistic about the city's future. "When Spokane leads, the rest of the country follows," Dillon stated, capturing the spirit of collaboration and progress that the "Ban the Address" ordinance represents.