Grand Rapids Reporter

GRAND RAPIDS, MI –On June 30, 2023, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten convened an LGBTQ+ legislative roundtable at the Grand Rapids Pride Center. The event brought together an array of voices, including advocacy partners, faith leaders, health care sector representatives, academics, and community leaders. Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, Representative Kristian Grant, Deputy City Manager Kate Berens participated in today’s event.

The event was held on the last day of Pride Month to discuss the state of LGBTQ rights in Grand Rapids and how the state local and federal laws work together, and at odds, with one another. Hours before the round table convened, the United States Supreme Court issued the decision in 303 Creative v. Elanis, which ruled that a Colorado website designer, open to the public, could refuse to make a website for a same-sex couple’s wedding.

"As record numbers of discriminatory, anti-LGBTQ bills are introduced in state legislatures across the nation and the Supreme Court continues to slash LGBTQ rights, Michigan is leading the way in protecting rights and working towards equality for all. Today’s decision from the U.S. Supreme Court strikes a blow to the heart of what we’re working to protect here in Michigan–what the voters voted to protect,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “I’m proud to be the first member of the Equality Caucus from this district. I take the responsibility of advocating for our community at the federal level very seriously, and I'm grateful to have local partners join me in this critical work. Thank you to the Grand Rapids Pride Center for hosting this important conversation on an important day– I look forward to continuing our shared work going forward."

By collaborating with key stakeholders and community leaders, Congresswoman Scholten aims to strengthen protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, advance equality legislation, and combat discrimination at all levels.

Original source can be found here.