A Minneapolis City Council committee has advanced a proposed ordinance that would mandate dress codes for businesses citywide, an initiative council members describe as a crucial step against discriminatory practices.
The Business, Housing & Zoning Committee unanimously endorsed the new regulation on Tuesday. If enacted, it would require any establishment holding a liquor or beer license to prominently display its dress code near its entrance.
This ordinance would not encompass standard health and safety regulations such as "no shirts, no shoes, no service" policies, as these are governed by state law.
Should the full City Council approve the measure, it is slated to take effect on January 1, 2027. The City Council is scheduled to deliberate on the ordinance on August 27.
Addressing Discriminatory Practices
According to committee members and the City Council, the ordinance is designed to counter "velvet rope discrimination," a term referring to the practice of denying individuals entry into a venue based on their race, gender, or sexual orientation.
Councilmember Jason Chavez highlighted a specific incident, recounting a high-profile case at a downtown Minneapolis bar where "There was a White man that was allowed entry wearing a Twins shirt and a Black man not allowed entry wearing a Twins shirt."
Chavez, who identifies as LGBTQ, also shared a personal experience of being denied entry to a bar before joining the council while wearing a rainbow pouch, noting that another individual "wearing similar clothes" but with a black pouch was granted access.
"I can understand why some people may not understand racism exists in this country, but it does," Chavez stated. "What we're trying to do here is make sure that people are transparent about their dress code to help prevent that discrimination."
Council Members Share Concerns and Support
Council members Pearll Warren and Jamal Osman also voiced their strong support for the ordinance, emphasizing its role in combating discrimination based on appearance.
"Picking and choosing based on your look or your dress or your culture should not be tolerated. We’re not in the 1950s here," Osman asserted.
Warren dismissed potential concerns, explaining that if an establishment prohibits "ball caps, and jerseys," this rule must be clearly posted. Otherwise, she argued, businesses cannot discriminate against patrons wearing such items.
Councilmember Rainville acknowledged the perspectives of his colleagues of color regarding persistent racism in bars and restaurants.
"I am not in a position to disagree with my fellow council members of color that this racism persists in the bars and restaurants. You know, I don't have that personal experience, so I rely on their judgment. And if this will alleviate some concerns by merely posting dress code rules, then so be it," Rainville commented.
