Dear Friend,

Happy Pride Month! This June, we celebrate the rich history, culture, and courage of the LGBTQ+ community. Every person, no matter who they love or how they identify deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported. I want you to know that I see you, I?ve got your back, and I?ll never stop fighting for your right to live as your full authentic self, right here in Michigan.

This issue is personal for me, and my administration remains committed to protecting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community and creating a more inclusive and welcoming Michigan. While other states are going backward in this fight, we?re going to keep moving forward. Bigotry is bad for business and Michigan will remain a bastion of freedom and opportunity where you can live a great life at a good cost of living.

Legislative Wins: Protecting LGBTQ+ Rights

Over the past year, we?ve made great strides in protecting LGBTQ+ rights. I was proud to sign legislation that expanded the Elliott-Larson Civil Rights Act to include sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. This ensures that no one can be fired from their job or be evicted from their home because of who they are or how they identify.

We?re protecting our LGBTQ+ youth as well. Thanks to my partners in the Michigan Legislature, I signed legislation that banned the horrific practice of conversion therapy, taking another big step in making Michigan a more welcoming and inclusive place.

Earlier this year, I signed the Michigan Family Protection Act which repealed our ban on surrogacy and protects IVF in our state. This act also ensures that LGBTQ+ families are treated equally when starting a family by eliminating the need to go through a costly and invasive process to get documentation confirming their parental status. Even if they move to a state that does not respect these basic rights, this legislation helps ensure they cannot be denied their relationship with their child.

LGBTQ+ Commission

Last year during Motor City Pride, I signed an executive order to establish the first-ever Michigan LGBTQ+ Commission, focused on protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Michigan?s LGBTQ+ community; promoting LGBTQ+ culture, history, and economic contributions to Michigan; and looking for ways to attract potential future Michigan residents who are members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Over the past year, the commission has been laser-focused on working to support policies and initiatives that reflect the needs and aspirations of LGBTQ+ Michiganders. Through their open public meetings and listening sessions, the commission voted to create a signature event aimed at professional development for senior college students, young professionals, and returning Michiganders.

For more information on what the LGBTQ+ Commission is up to, please visit their website or subscribe to their monthly newsletter.

We will continue to stand with our LGBTQ+ community and are committed to creating an inclusive Michigan where everyone can live authentically and proudly.

Happy Pride!

Sincerely,?

Gretchen Whitmer

Governor