MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - On June 1, 2021, with a 7-0 vote, the Meridian Township Board voted to state June 2021 as Pride Month. The resolution also urges everyone to take a stance against discrimination and reject violence toward LGBTQIA+ individuals.

The resolution follows Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist’s proclamation making June 2021 Pride Month.

Whitmer said, “LGBTQIA+ Michaganders are an essential part of who we are, and they make our state a better place to live and work.”

With 370,000 members of the LGBTQIA+ community residing in Michigan, the State and Township Governments encourage the community to make sure LGBTQIA+ individuals feel safe, valued, and know that their state will invest in their health and potential.

Deborah Guthrie, Meridian Township Clerk, said, “No one should be treated differently based on their gender or how they identify their gender.”

The celebration of Pride Month takes place in June 2021, to commemorate the 52nd anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, an event recognized as a catalyst for modern LGBTQIA+ civil rights.

“We should all fight to love anyone, to love our neighbors, to be ourselves, and be proud,” said Trustee Courtney Wisinski.

The Township Board has taken many steps in the past to work towards equality for the LGBTQIA+ community. In July of 2013, a unanimous vote amended Board policies to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Township Board also joined together with East Lansing, Delta, and Delhi Townships in May of 2013, to launch a coalition press conference to push for LGBTQIA+ nondiscrimination ordinances.

“I witnessed multiple occasions where safety is a concern, discrimination is a concern, and even violence soley based on who you love,” Wisinski said, “We must continue to fight to make sure our LGBTQIA+ neighbors feel safe and valid.”

Equal rights for the LGBTQIA+ community has always been a priority to Michigan. In 1972, the nation’s first nondiscrimination ordinance was passed In East Lansing.

Michigan celebrates LGBTQIA+ individuals and their community during this month, and acknowledges the important work that still needs to be done to end discrimination and injustice.