Miami poised to embrace diversity

Finally, some sensible ideas from politicians:

Miami voters are being asked Jan. 29 to approve a "Citizens' Bill of Rights" that would, among other things, promote religious freedom, clean air and scenic beauty.

It would also ban discrimination on the basis of domestic relationship status, sexual orientation and gender identity and expression -- though relatively few people are aware of it.

Apparently this has really flown under the radar, as a number of gay rights advocates are not even aware of this ballot initiative. Still, here's hoping Miami voters recognize the importance of inclusion and reject the politics of separation and discrimination, like a number of other south Florida municipalities already have done:

Palm Beach and Monroe counties and the cities of Wilton Manors, Oakland Park, Miami Beach and Key West have added transgender protections to their gay-rights ordinances.

"All across Florida, we're seeing more and more cities recognize the value of policies that set forth strong standards of respect," said Stratton Pollitzer, deputy director of Equality Florida, the state's largest gay-rights group. "It's great to see Miami take its rightful place as a leader in diversity."

Go vote a week from today (or earlier), Miami. And vote "yes" on this important "Bill of Rights."