LANSING, Mich. (July 29, 2022) — Sen. Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) has issued the following statement regarding the Michigan Supreme Court’s decision in Rouch World, LLC v. Department of Civil Rights, in which they affirmed legal protections for Michigan’s LGBTQ+ community under the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act:

“I am glad that the court is upholding what most Michiganders believe to be right — that all people have equal protection under the law regardless of who they are or how they identify. This decision is a small but significant step in the right direction of not just saying that Michigan is a welcoming and inclusive place, but proving it.

“Still, we must commit ourselves to ensuring such a minimal human dignity as affording civil rights protections is neither negotiable nor questioned going forward. When we see people as people instead of labels, we can finally work toward true equity for those most harmed by systemic injustices. I am proud to work alongside those who share this same vision as me, including Sen. Jeremy Moss, Attorney General Dana Nessel, and folks at the Department of Civil Rights, who each also see value in upholding these rights as a cornerstone of their public service.”

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