Why Wedding Venues In Pennsylvania Can Still Legally Discriminate Against Same-Sex Couples
http://thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2014/07/11/3459114/pennsylvania-wedding-discrimination/
The Inne of the Abingtons garden pavilion and gazebo.
The Inne of the Abingtons, located just north of Scranton, Pennsylvania, boasts on its website that it has been voted best wedding reception venue and best outdoor ceremony location, but only different-sex couples currently have the opportunity to see if the commendations are warranted. Though Pennsylvania now allows for same-sex marriage, the venue refuses to allow same-sex couples to hold their weddings or receptions there and such discrimination is perfectly legal in Pennsylvania.
Desiree Mark was thrilled to not have to travel to another state to marry her partner, but was disappointed when her inquiry to the Inne prompted a response refusing her patronage. The email, which has been shared on Facebook more than 1,000 times, informed the couple, Unfortunately, we do not hold same sex marriages at our facility. The email did not provide an explanation as to why, but did express hope that the couple might find somewhere that will fulfill all your wedding dreams.
The Inne has made no public comment on the matter, but WNEP did report that the owner believes the negative feedback has been blown out of proportion. Some are now calling for a boycott of the wedding venue.
In Pennsylvania, the Innes discrimination is perfectly legal. When the commonwealth became the 19th marriage equality state earlier this year, it also became the first state to offer same-sex marriage but absolutely no nondiscrimination protections for the LGBT community. In Pennsylvania, it is legal to fire, refuse housing, and deny service to individuals just because of their sexual orientation and gender identity.