Here is a sample of what’s going on around the country. Please be kind to yourself and use your discretion while reading this section. You can share news from your state with [email protected] for possible inclusion in a future newsletter. California - Freedom to Read Act becomes law. The new law forbids public libraries receiving state funds from banning books or other materials based on the topics, ideas, views, or opinions in them. Public libraries also are forbidden from banning books in a way that discriminates against race, disability, political affiliation, socioeconomic status, gender identity or sexual orientation. Equality California celebrates 25th anniversary. The celebration of 25 years of advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, which was hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Sasha Colby, included awards for Julian Breece, director of Rustin, and Greg Sarris, Chairman of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. Michigan - PFLAG Parents of a trans child talk about their journey. Amber and Ken Long spoke about the importance of PFLAG Detroit in finding resources to support their daughter as well as the importance of the pro-equality steps Michigan’s government has taken to keep their family safe. Texas - Justice of the Peace continues lawsuit against State Commission on Judicial Conduct. The Texas State Commission on Judicial Conduct publicly sanctioned Judge Dianne Hensley for her refusal to officiate same-sex weddings. Hensley sued, claiming the commission was violating her religious freedom. The commission rescinded their sanction of Hensley in September, noting that justices of the peace are not required to officiate weddings. Despite this, Hensley is continuing with the suit. Virginia - Arlington forms LGBTQ Advisory Committee. The new committee will hold its first meeting on October 21st and will be tasked with guiding county leadership on LGBTQ issues and ensuring representation of the community in local government. | 
