Dear Neighbor,
Here in Michigan, we are dedicated to cultivating inclusion, belonging, and welcome for everyone — not just during Pride Month but every day year-round. ️
Since the onset of our state’s first Senate Democratic Majority in over forty years, my colleagues and I have taken swift, decisive action to expand protections for the LGBTQ+ community. In fact, one of the first bills we passed in our new majority was the historic expansion of the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA), safeguarding Michiganders from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression — a collaborative effort that was decades in the making. Senate Democrats also passed new laws that banned the harmful practice of conversion therapy for minors, put a stop to “gay and trans panic defense,” and championed a resolution that recognizes June as Pride Month in Michigan.
These efforts are a meaningful step forward for Michigan, but they are certainly not the last. With all the uncertainty and chaos coming out of Washington D.C., we recognize the continued need for education and awareness to end discrimination and prejudice — and we’ll always continue fighting to ensure every Michigander can live freely and authentically.
Thanks to those of you who have reached out to my office or advocated on behalf of a more inclusive and just Michigan. As always, please feel free to reach out to share your thoughts or seek assistance with any challenges you may be facing with state departments. You can email me at SenSSingh@senate.michigan.gov or call (517) 373-3447.
Sincerely,
Sam Singh
State Senator
District 28
Happy Pride Month — How Senate Democrats Have Blocked Anti-Trans Bills from Advancing in the Michigan Legislature
As mentioned in the intro letter, Michigan Senate Democrats have been committed to advancing legislation that supports the rights of every Michigander to live freely and authentically. Along with those efforts, we’ve also been hard at work defending Michiganders from being subjected to hateful and harmful bills passed out of the Michigan House.
During the budget cycle last year, the Republican-controlled House had passed a plan containing over 20 bills aimed at restricting the rights, safety and dignity of trans and gender non-conforming Michiganders.
Throughout budget negotiations, we were clear: we would not compromise our values. Because of that leadership, none of these bills advanced in the Senate, and all discriminatory provisions were removed from the final budget signed into law.
What You Can Do
Building a brighter, more inclusive state where people can live free to be their true selves requires all of us showing up, speaking out, and standing up. Here’s a few actionable ways to build that future.
Vote in every election — local, state, and federal. You hold the power to put people in office who will be tireless advocates for our LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors — use it!
Show up at Pride events, school board meetings, community forums, and anywhere issues pertaining to gay, lesbian, trans, and non-binary folks are being highlighted, discussed, or debated. Your presence and your voice matter.
Engage with your representatives — we work for you and want to hear from you! Give us a call or send us a message and come out to one of our community events. Let us know how we can better represent you — and those you love — at the Capitol and out in the community.
Local Pride Events
There are several Pride festivals happening this month and throughout the summer all across the state. If you want to find an event near you, my team has compiled a list below — I hope to see you out there!
East Lansing Pride
WHEN: Saturday, June 13, from 4:00 – 9:00 p.m.
WHERE: Downtown East Lansing, along Albert Ave. between Abbot Rd. and M.A.C. Ave.
Along with their open floor drag show, East Lansing Pride will also feature live music, local vendors, inclusive art activities, and local giveaways. Learn more on the event Facebook page.
St. Johns’ Pride in the Park Festival
WHEN: Sunday, June 21, from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
WHERE: St. Johns City Park, 805 W. Park St., St. Johns, MI
Organized by the SJ Call-In Coalition, this 5th annual festival features music, local vendors, community resource tables, and activities.
Lansing Pride Festival
WHEN: Saturday, June 27, from 1:00 – 9:00 p.m.
WHERE: Old Town, 216 E. Cesar E. Chavez Ave., Lansing, MI 48906
Mid-Michigan’s largest community-focused festival with vendors, live entertainment, and prominent headliners, Learn more at LansingPride.org.
DeWitt Pride Festival
WHEN: Sunday, June 28, from 12:00 – 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Riverside Park, 405 S. Bridge St., DeWitt, MI 48820
A family-friendly event featuring games, activities, and snacks. To learn more, visit midewittpride.org.
Resources
- Equality Michigan – Advocacy, legal support, and resources
- OutCenter Southwest Michigan – Youth programs, family support, and more
- GLSEN Southeast Michigan – School policy advocacy and support for students
- Transgender Michigan – Help line, events, and resources for the trans community
- The Trevor Project – 24/7 crisis services for LGBTQ+ young people