LGBTQ Equality. Where does your state stand?

Hey there, friends. I'm returning to my exploration of the links available on my Links of Interest page. Today's link is one I truly hoped would become obsolete. But, here we are, July of 2022, and the information shared by the LGBTMap.org is needed more than ever.

We all know there's a wide range of policies and laws when it comes to LGBTQ+ equality across the United State. But where does YOUR state stand on issues such as relationship and parental recognition? How about nondiscrimination, religious exemption laws, policies that impact LGBTQ youth, healthcare laws and policies,  criminal justice practices, the ability for transgender people to correct name and gender markers on identity documents, and even more. Do you know? And how do you find out? A great place to start is by visiting the LGBTMap.org website.

My home state of Michigan has made progress since I first started visiting this site, but according to the website, only 1 county out of 83 has an ordinance prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation in private employment, housing, and public accommodations (full protections). And only 33% of the state population is protected against discrimination based on sexual orientation in private employment, housing, and public accommodations (full protections). The site breaks down current policies in several important areas and even offers a snapshot by county.

I am still waiting for a day when this type of information isn't needed. But, until then, please, educate, inform, and if necessary, protect yourself and your loved ones. Now, more than ever, we need to know.