Proud to be an ally to the LGBTQ community

Ever since I can remember, LGBTQ people have been part of my circle of friends, including those so close I consider them my chosen family. So the work I do to support the pursuit of full LGBTQ equality comes naturally to me.

With each step forward, I have shared in the joy of the LGBTQ community and wept with joy for their progress. With every setback or tragedy, I have shared in their frustration and grief, at times weeping in sorrow.

I can never truly know what it means to question my sexual orientation or gender identity, but what I do know is this: The LGBTQ community is made up of people, just like any other community. And they deserve the same rights as everyone else.

So it was a great pleasure to write the cover for this year’s annual PrideSource magazine, at a time when the LGBTQ community is celebrating both one of its greatest triumphs to date — marriage equality — and facing some of the most troubling backlash, including the horrific attack in Orlando.

As I wrote in my feature story:

There’s no question that the landscape of LGBTQ equality has shifted dramatically since the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision legalizing same-sex marriage. It’s the equivalent of a massive earthquake that’s done more good than harm. But the aftershocks are significant. Those who oppose LGBTQ equality are pushing back and the backlash is fierce, both in Michigan and across the country. Still, when you talk to leaders in Michigan’s LGBTQ movement, the prevailing attitude is one of optimism.

I had the honor of interviewing some of the most influential LGBTQ movement leaders in Michigan, and I share their optimism — and their determination to continue the forward momentum of progress. I will continue to stand with them every step of the way.

Read my cover story here, starting on page 8.