What's New

Support for LGBT Workplace Protections and Marriage Equality Surges Ahead in Michigan!

The results are in! Your support and work has emboldened more people to come out in support of equality, and now we have the record numbers to prove it! A new poll shows increased and majority support from Michigan Republicans, Democrats and Independents for core LGBT rights issues. There are two easy steps you can take RIGHT NOW to build on this momentum and bring us closer to the finish line!

Give OUT Day 2013

On May 9th, 2013, thousands of people like you are going to show their support for their favorite LGBT nonprofit during Give OUT Day. Equality Michigan is excited to be participating in this national effort! You can make a monthly donation to support our work advancing equality and serving victims of crime right on our website!

Michigan Supreme Court Upholds DP Benefits for State Employees

Earlier today the Michigan Supreme Court voted 7-0 not to hear the appeal of Attorney General Bill Scheutte in a case that could have threatened domestic partner rights for state employees. Equality Michigan is pleased that the Michigan Supreme Court has recognized what millions of Michiganders already know - the time has come to end the second-class treatment of LGBT families in Michigan. Denying children of same-sex couples access to healthcare is a cruel effort by anti-LGBT leaders to instill a set of values which stand in opposition to the will of the people. Additionally, the court’s affirmation of the authority and autonomy held by the Michigan Civil Service Commission is a promising example of upholding the laws and systems put in place to increase equality among those living in Michigan.

Give OUT Day 2013 - Why Do You Respect Equality?

In addition to asking your friends to support their favorite LGBT organizations on May 9th - we want to hear why supporting equality is important to you! Kicking off for Give OUT Day and continuing through the summer - we want your stories, videos, pictures, poems, rants, blog posts, mashed potato sculptures…or whatever creative way you choose to express why the equality of LGBT Michiganders deserves respect! All submissions will be judged and the winners will win a fab prize worthy of smacking a rainbow to!Send your submissions to: resp...@equalitymi.org

Tell the Republicans It Is Time for Dave Agema To Go!

Dave Agema, a Republican leader from Michigan, has been almost going out of his way on Facebook and radio lately to showcase his own hatred and homophobia. While "citing" research conducted by known white supremacist and Holocaust-denier Edward Fields - Agema stated numerous lies attacking the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities. Since then he has continued to embarrass himself with failed attempts to backtrack his remarks. Join Equality Michigan and Democracy for America in standing up and saying enough is enough and it is time for Dave Agema to leave his leadership roles within the Republican Party.

Pleasant Ridge Passes LGBT Inclusive Human Rights Ordinance!

We are happy to report great news from our members in Pleasant Ridge! This past week, their elected officials unanimously adopted an LGBT-inclusive human rights ordinance! These ordinances send a powerful message to all of Michigan that anti-LGBT discrimination cannot be tolerated. Equality Michigan applauds the people of Pleasant Ridge for promoting compassion over hatred and we look forward to working with local advocates on any necessary efforts to implement and protect these measures.

Be a Part of History at Events Around Michigan

This week the U.S. Supreme Court will consider two marriage equality cases. These two cases – which concern the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and California’s Proposition 8 – are fundamentally about whether LGBT people in this country can enjoy the same freedoms and opportunities as everyone else. Join members of Equality Michigan, Unity Michigan, and the Michigan's LGBT Community Centers Network this week at rallies around the state. Wear red to show your support for marriage equality!

UPDATE: Take action to oppose postponed bill permitting healthcare discrimination

After delaying the vote under pressure from Equality Michigan, Planned Parenthood, Unity Michigan members, the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, and over 20 advocates for mental and physical health - the Michigan Senate Committee on Health Policy finally held their vote on Senate Bill 136. Following the rejection of amendments which would have reduced the likelihood of discrimination, the Senators approved the bill and sent it to the full Michigan Senate for consideration.

Field Organizer Position Posted

Equality Michigan has announced the posting of a field organizer position. The field organizer posting will be open until March 1st, and the position will focus on building relationships with groups and individuals, training and motivating activists, and increasing member and activist base.

Download the MDCR Report on LGBT Inclusion under Michigan Law With Recommendations for Action

Equality Michigan thanks and applauds the Michigan Department of Civil Rights for doing their due diligence to investigate the state of equality in Michigan and report their findings and recommendations, as well as our stories, in such a compelling document. Download a PDF of this amazing report!

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