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LEO Statements on Elliott-Larsen Expansion to Include LGBTQ+ and the Meaning for Michigan Economy, Workforce and Families
March 16, 2023
Following Governor Gretchen Whitmer signing legislation that adds protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity to Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, top leadership from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) spoke on what this expansion means for Michigan’s economy, workforce and families.
“As we work to build a stronger, more inclusive Michigan where all people have equal opportunity for prosperity, I am proud that our state’s leaders have taken action to lift up the more than 373,000 Michiganders who identify as LGBTQ+,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “Today’s legislative signing amplifies our commitment toward equity and inclusion for all Michiganders and provides critical, long-overdue protections for valued members of our families and our communities.”
“The Black Leadership Advisory Council is committed to removing barriers to prosperity and supporting policies to address inequities in Michigan,” said Robert Womack and Donna Bell, BLAC Co-chairs. “Far too often, members of the LGBTQ+ community face discrimination simply because of who they are and who they love. The Council applauds this monumental victory that will make Michigan a more equitable and inclusive state for all.”
“Access to equity and the freedom from discrimination in employment, education, housing and public services is vital to economic security for all individuals and families,” said Cheryl Bergman, CEO of the Michigan Women’s Commission. “Decisions about how and where to work, study, live and engage with our communities should never be limited based on how we identify or who we love. Today’s expansion of protections for LGBTQ+ Michiganders adds to Michigan’s position as an inclusive and welcoming state for a diversity of talent.”
“The Office of Global Michigan’s goal is to make Michigan the home for opportunity for our immigrant, refugee and ethnic communities,” said Poppy Hernandez, Michigan’s Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer and Director of the Office of Global Michigan. “With expanded protections for LGBTQ+ Michiganders under the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, Michigan will be a state where diversity is celebrated and people from around the world can feel welcomed and valued.”
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