Does HISD Trusteee Manuel Rodriguez Deserve To Be Re-Elected?

What is being called an Offensive Flyer is being circulated in the race for the Houston Independent School board of trustees position III and some are wondering if the controversy could impact the election.

In a new campaign flyer that was mailed to voters days before Tuesday’s election, incumbent Manuel Rodriguez  appears to attack his opponent, Ramiro Fonseca, for receiving the endorsement of the Houston gay and lesbian community.

The Houston GLBT Political Caucus issued a statement condemning Rodriguez and the flyer. (the entire statement is posted below) In a rare move, the Houston Chronicle retracted its endorsement of  Rodriguez.

As of Sunday night Rodriguez had not issued a statement.

Do you think the controversial campaign flyer will impact Tuesday’s election results?

 STATEMENT ON MANUEL RODRIGUEZ ANTI-GLBT HATE MAIL

(HOUSTON, TX) The Houston GLBT Political Caucus strongly condemns the recent anti-GLBT campaign mailpiece sent to voters by incumbent HISD Trustee Manuel “Manny” Rodriguez. The mailpiece attacks his opponent, Ramiro Fonseca for supporting equal rights for the GLBT community and for receiving the endorsement of the Houston GLBT Political Caucus PAC.

“GLBT youth are twelve times more likely to be bullied in schools, five times more likely to commit suicide, and eight times more likely to be homeless.” said Caucus president Noel Freeman. “A bigoted homophobe like Rodriguez has no business making decisions that affect our children.”

HISD recently adopted a non-discrimination policy that protects the rights of GLBT students, staff an d faculty. Rodriguez’ anti-GLBT attitude runs strongly against that policy and promotes an environment of intolerance and hatred. Our schools should be an environment where our children feel safe and welcome.

“Manuel Rodriguez is assuming the voters of District III share the same bigoted, hateful views he holds.” Freeman said. “Houstonians have proven time and time again that such views are not welcome in our City, and have consistently rejected candidates who espouse such hateful views. We urge the voters of District III to reject Manuel Rodriguez on election day.”