Charlotte’s city council voted 7-4 on Monday to expand local non-discrimination protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity, among other characteristics.

More than 200 people gathered in Charlotte on Monday for a community conversation on proposed LGBT-inclusive non-discrimination ordinances rejected by city leaders last year and up for a potential vote this month.

The strategy for passing a long-sought-after package of LGBT-inclusive non-discrimination ordinances in Charlotte has shifted as advocates prepare for city leaders to vote a second time on the proposal.

One Charlotte restaurant owner is taking a personal and professional stand against discrimination as the city debates a package of LGBT-inclusive non-discrimination ordinances slated for a vote on Feb. 8.