Two gay men with developmental and intellectual disabilities were kicked out of the pool at The Pavilion, a government-funded recreational facility in Hazard, Kentucky because "gay people weren't allowed to swim there."

According to Raw Story:

"The Pavilion staff immediately entered the pool area and asked my clients and their staff to leave the Pavilion," Mending Hearts Executive Director Shirlyn Perkins recalled. "My staff asked The Pavilion staff why they were being asked to leave, and they were informed that 'gay people' weren't allowed to swim there."

"My staff told this man that what he was trying to do was discrimination. The man stated that what he was doing was in the Bible and he could do it. My staff continued to argue with this man, but was ultimately forced to leave. My clients, whom already feel ridiculed and different, left the city owned facility crying and embarrassed for trying to participate in 'normal' activities that everyday 'normal' people do," she added.

The Kentucky Equality Federation has demanded an apology from the Hazard, Kentucky City Council for this blatant discrimination.

While the City of Hazard's Mayor Nan Gorman is sympathetic and has formally apologized, the real power to resolve this issue lies with the City Manager Carlos combs and the City Attorney, Paul R. Collins. We demand a resounding apology from the entire city government, including the City Manager Carlos Combs, and the City Attorney. 

Sign below to send an email to the City condemning this outrageous act while demanding an apology.

NEW:  An apology is also due the LGBTI community of Hazard, and gender identity should be added to the pools rules against discrimination. 

PROTEST UPDATE: Video from Lex18.com on the Protest/Community Rally.