Court blocks Michigan conversion therapy ban on free speech grounds

Read more at Bridge Michigan.

A federal appeals court on Wednesday blocked Michigan’s ban on conversion therapy for minors who are LGBTQ+, declaring it violates the First Amendment rights of therapists and counselors.

In a 2-1 opinion, the court said the law illegally restricts speech that reflects the moral beliefs of therapists. It set aside a lower court’s ruling and granted a preliminary injunction sought by Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale Counties.

“The Michigan law discriminates based on viewpoint — meaning the law permits speech on a particular topic only if the speech expresses a viewpoint that the government itself approves,” Judge Raymond Kethledge wrote, joined by Judge Joan Larsen.

They noted that the law permits counseling that helps someone undergoing a gender transition.

The court’s decision comes more than two months after the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a Colorado case that could resolve the issue nationwide.

In a dissent, Judge Rachel Bloomekatz said the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals should have waited for the Supreme Court to act.

The Michigan bill was passed by the Democratic-controlled Legislature and signed into law in 2023 by Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who said conversion therapy is a “horrific practice.” Therapists could lose their license if they violate the law. More than 20 states have a similar law.

LGBTQ+ rights advocates have cited research suggesting conversion therapy can increase the risk of suicide and depression.

Michigan LGBTQ support groups speak out after transgender woman detained by border patrol agents

Read more at CBS News.

After a transgender immigrant woman was detained following a traffic stop by Romulus police, local advocacy groups are speaking out, highlighting challenges LGBTQ immigrants face while in federal custody.

In June, Alexa, a transgender woman living in Ypsilanti, Michigan, was pulled over by a Romulus police officer for allegedly speeding. Instead of being given a ticket, officials contacted border patrol, who then took the Honduran native into federal custody.

CBS News Detroit contacted Alexa’s attorneys and is waiting to hear back. Both the ACLU of Michigan and local advocacy group Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center, which are in support of Alexa, said they have been in contact with her attorneys.

Alexa’s attorney told Detroit Free Press that her client reported alleged abuse while in federal custody, including being unable to shower and communicate with her attorneys.

While not directly involved in Alexa’s representation, Jay Kaplan, staff attorney with the ACLU of Michigan’s LGBT Project, collaborated with several local groups to support her.

“There are unique circumstances involving members of the transgender and non-binary immigrant community,” said Kaplan. “If they’re going to be sent to a detention center, that these centers should be taking into consideration their gender identity and their gender expression as it relates to safety,” said Kaplan.

Soon after Alexa’s arrest, the Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center was asked to write letters of support for her case. Justin Bettcher, senior manager of Community Engagement, says while the Ferndale, Michigan, center was limited in what it could offer, they would do anything to help.

“When you look at anything statistically, whether that be suicide rates, arrest rates, things like that, when you add that intersecting LGBTQ+ identity to that, those numbers go up exponentially,” Bettcher said. “It was a really quick turnaround as well. It was, I think, a day and a half, and it was one of those things where I knew immediately, I wanted to do it.”

“Even if it was a one-page letter to an immigration judge, I wanted to do something.”

We reached out to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for comment, and a spokesperson said:

“Romulus police contacted U.S. Border Patrol requesting assistance with identifying one subject they had in custody at the Romulus Police Station. [Alexa] stated they were a citizen of Honduras and stated they did not possess any documents allowing them to stay, live, reside, work, or remain in the United States legally. USBP placed them under arrest and transported them to the Gibraltar Border Patrol Station for identity verification and verification of the documents they had in their possession. The claims they did not shower or have any communication are blatantly false. Detainees are provided showers, soap, and a clean towel for those approaching 72 hours in detention. They showered on June 9 and June 12.  Additionally, agents granted them telephone access per policy. Both of these are outlined in CBP’s National Standards on Transport, Escort, Detention, and Search.”

CBS News Detroit contacted Immigration and Customs Enforcement for comment about the alleged abuse and is waiting to hear back.  

LGBTQ+ Friendly Travel Guide to Saugatuck/Douglas, MI

Read more at Out Coast. We recently saw this Reels on Facebook about Saugatuck, which lead us to find the below article.

Saugatuck and Douglas, also known as “The Art Coast of Michigan,” are neighboring resort towns separated by a mere 1.3 miles. Affectionately known as “Provincetown of the Midwest,” they share the same inclusive vibe, natural scenery, arts culture, and active queer community. They are must-visits for the gay community for romantic weekend escapes, fun vacations, or to just be yourself. Check out our guide to find the most welcoming places and LGBTQ+ friendly experiences in Saugatuck/Douglas.

How to Get There: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

You know it’s “small town USA” when there are no major airports, train stations, or bus terminals in town. Regardless of how you choose to travel, your time spent in Saugatuck/Douglas is worth every moment of the journey.

Planes: The nearest major airport is Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, about a 45-minute drive from Saugatuck/Douglas. From the airport, you can rent a car or use a shuttle service.

Trains: Amtrak provides rail services to nearby cities like Holland, which is only a short drive from Saugatuck. From the train station, you can use local transport to reach Saugatuck/Douglas.

Automobiles: Depending upon where you’re traveling from, you may just opt for a road trip. The roads leading to Saugatuck have beautiful scenery, especially the views of Lake Michigan.

Buses: Budget-friendly transportation that allows you to “leave the driving to us,” the closest bus station to Saugatuck/Douglas is in Holland, about a 12 mile drive away.

How LGBTQ+ Welcoming Is Saugatuck/Douglas

Saugatuck/Douglas are small towns with big hearts for the queer community. They are a slice of paradise where everyone is celebrated. These lakeside towns have a knack for making every visitor feel like a local, with their friendly faces and open arms. The idea of LGBTQ+ friendliness is a genuine lifestyle here. The local businesses fly rainbow flags like badges of honor, creating spaces where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, can just be themselves. Saugatuck/Douglas is where the gay community is a vital part of what makes these towns whole.

Pride Events in Saugatuck/Douglas

Community Pride Care-A-Van Car Parade – It’s a party on wheels! The Community Pride Care-A-Van Car Parade is a rolling rainbow of fun with cars decked out in all the colors of the rainbow, honking and waving as they parade through the streets of Saugatuck in June. 

Saugatuck/Douglas Pride Festival – Also called Pride in the Park, this family-friendly event is held in Berry Park in Douglas where the Care-A-Van Parade ends. It has everything from live music and performances to vendors and food. So, put on your dancin’ shoes, have some barbecue, and sip on a cold one as you mix and mingle with the queer community.

History Of Saugatuck/Douglas

Saugatuck/Douglas trace back to the early 19th century when they were first settled by Europeans. Originally known as Kalamazoo Village, the towns were significant ports and lumbering centers on the Kalamazoo River. In the late 1800s, Saugatuck/Douglas became notable resort towns, attracting visitors with their Lake Michigan beaches and dune landscapes. Over time, the towns’ focus shifted from industry to tourism and the arts. Today, these coastal towns are celebrated for their inclusive and diverse communities, making them welcoming destinations for queer travelers.

Sunflowers in Saugatuck MI
Photo by Canopy Gap from Unsplash

LGBTQ+ Friendly Places to Stay in Saugatuck/Douglas

Quaint bed and breakfasts, cozy cottages, boutique hotels, or rustic cabins, whatever accommodations suit your fancy, there are plenty of choices for the LGBTQ+ traveler. Check out some of our favorites. 

The Lakeshore Resort – The Lakeshore Resort has easy access to the beach for sunbathing or taking a swim in Lake Michigan. With its comfortable cabins and rooms, barbecue and picnic areas, it’s a great choice for a laid-back, beachy vacation, and lakeside fun at its finest.

The Kirby Hotel – Historic charm and modern luxury collide at the Kirby Hotel, offering a chic and comfortable stay. Stylish décor and welcoming feel, make it a favorite for adding a touch of elegance to a getaway. Located in the heart of Saugatuck, it’s an ideal spot for exploring the town’s artsy vibe.

Hidden Garden Cottages & Suites – Looking to kick back after a day of Saugatuck adventures? Hidden Gardens Cottages and Suites is set among beautiful gardens, making it feel like a secret spot just waiting to be discovered. Unique, quirky charm is its hallmark, creating a relaxed, homey space.

Saugatuck Retro Resort – The Saugatuck Retro Resort takes you on a nostalgic trip with its fun, vintage-themed touch. Colorful décor, classic cars, and a throwback atmosphere make it a must if you love a “blast from the past.” Featuring a cool, retro pool area it’s perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun old-school style.

Recommended Restaurants In Saugatuck/Douglas

Known for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood and iconic Michigan fruit pies that are a must-try, Saugatuck/Douglas is a foodie’s delight.  Whether you’re in the mood for a casual, al fresco lunch at a café or a sophisticated dinner at an upscale restaurant, Saugatuck’s culinary scene has it all. Here are some of our favorite spots to find exactly what you’re in the mood for.

Coast 236 – Coast 236 is breezy, beach-inspired dining that’s both fun and relaxing. The menu, featuring fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, brings a taste of the seaside right to your table. If it’s a sunny lunch or a romantic dinner, Coast 236 serves up yummy dishes.

The Belvedere Inn & Restaurant – With a menu that’s a seasonal, creative fusion of local and international flavors, The Belvedere Inn & Restaurant is a food lover’s paradise. The atmosphere is upbeat yet intimate, perfect for both a quiet dinner or gathering with friends. 

Scooter’s Café & Pizzeria – Scooter’s Café & Pizzeria is a great spot for lunch, dinner, or grabbing late-night bites and drinks. Their specialty is hand-tossed pizzas, but the menu doesn’t stop there. It also includes pasta, wings, salads, sandwiches, and more, all available for takeout or free delivery.

Dune Ride Michigan
Photo by Documerica from Unsplash

Things To Do & See In Saugatuck/Douglas

Saugatuck/Douglas are artsy towns, with galleries and studios where you can admire or purchase local art. They’re also beach towns where you can indulge in water activities like sailing, fishing, or just lounging on their beautiful beaches. Whatever your pleasure, you can find it here. Here are some of our favorites.

Saugatuck Dune Rides – Buckle up for a bumpy, laughter-filled ride as you explore the scenic sand dunes of Saugatuck  with fun and knowledgeable guides. It’s a mix of natural beauty, local history, and a dash of excitement, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

The Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruise – Aboard this paddlewheel boat, you glide along the river, soaking up the sun and the breeze. The cruise has scenic views and light-hearted narration that adds fun to the journey, making it a nice mix of relaxation and discovery.

Saugatuck Center for the Arts – Explore art exhibits, enjoy live shows from concerts to plays, and participate in interactive workshops where art and performances come to life. It’s the go-to place to experience the local arts scene.

Oval Beach – Named one of the Top 25 Beaches in the World by Condé Nast Magazine, Oval Beach is where the gay community comes together to sunbathe and socialize. OutTraveler rated it the fourth best Inland Gay Beach in the country.

Where To Shop & Stroll In Saugatuck/Douglas

Shopping and strolling blend seamlessly into one enjoyable experience. With the towns’ compact, walkable streets lined with all kinds of shops, galleries, and cafes, Suagatuck/Douglas caters to all of your whims. 

Downtown Saugatuck – The streets of downtown are rows of boutiques and galleries, each with its own character. It’s easy to spend a day exploring these shops, where you can find everything from local art to souvenirs. 

Butler Street – On Butler Street, you find shops that are as unique as the town itself. Local art takes center stage in small galleries, and specialty stores have everything from artisanal foods to handcrafted jewelry. The street has a small-town charm, where shopping feels like a stroll through a friendly neighborhood.

Saugatuck Antique Pavilion – Take a walk down memory lane through 24,000 square feet of the Saugatuck Antique Pavilion that’s loaded with throw-back goodies, from old-school vinyl records to classic furniture, and everything else you can imagine. When you’re finished, you can head next door to the Saugatuck Brewing Company for a cold beer.

LGBTQ+ Bars, Clubs and Nightlife In Saugatuck/Douglas

No visit to Saugatuck/Douglas is complete without experiencing a few of the many LGBTQ+ friendly bars and nightspots where everyone is welcomed. 

The Dunes Resort – When you’re ready to let your hair down and cut loose, The Dunes Resort in Douglas, is where gay meets Studio 54, and you can “dance like nobody’s watching.” Drag shows and themed parties add to the fun, for a crowd that’s ready to party. 

Guardian Brewing Company – At Guardian Brewing Company, every visit is an adventure in craft beer tasting, with a constantly changing lineup of unique brews. This LGBTQ+ owned brewery pairs a casual, friendly vibe with a passion for innovative beer-making. It’s a great spot to chill, chat, and drink a cold one. 

Sand Dunes Michigan
Photo by Krystal Fuller from Unsplash

Annual Events and Festivals in Saugatuck/Douglas

Like many small towns, Saugatuck/Douglas likes to celebrate the things they’re famous for through their annual events and festivals. Here are some of the best.

Venetian Festival – Saugatuck’s summer highlight, featuring boat parades and a festival, the Venetian Festival buzzes with live music, games, and food stalls, making it a feast for the senses. The town comes alive with a party-like atmosphere for this waterfront celebration

Saugatuck Film Festival – Showcasing films from local and international filmmakers, the Saugatuck Film Festival  is a major draw for movie buffs. With screenings, discussions, and the chance to mingle with filmmakers and fellow film lovers, it’s a great way to experience the world of cinema.

Art in Douglas Fall Gallery Stroll – Local galleries open their doors for a night of art exploration and appreciation. The event combines art viewing with casual strolls around town, often complemented by light refreshments and the chance to meet the artists. 

Explore Saugatuck/Douglas and Discover Your Ultimate Queer Escape

For the LGBTQ+ traveler, the towns of Saugatuck and Douglas are more than just a getaway, they provide a space to celebrate and be yourself, surrounded by a community that embraces diversity. Each day is an opportunity to create new memories in a setting that feels both adventurous and like a home away from home. The combination of natural beauty, welcoming community, and a laid-back vibe, creates more than just a vacation destination, it’s a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You’re going to find that these twin cities have a way of staying with you, long after your vacation ends.

University of Michigan closes DEI offices and stops strategic plan after Trump order

*This is being reported by The Detroit News.

The University of Michigan is immediately shutting down two offices and an effort dedicated to diversity, equity and inclusion, and shifting the resources to other student programs, university officials said Thursday, after the Trump administration had threatened to cut off funding.

The email announcement by top UM officials, including President Santa Ono, said UM is closing its Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the Office for Health Equity and Inclusion as well as discontinuing its DEI 2.0 Strategic Plan. The moves came as the university has taken other actions, such as ending diversity statements in faculty hiring, in a bid to stop “litmus tests” that restrict the diversity of thought.

It is unclear how many people are employed at UM in DEI work, but the conservative Heritage Foundation ranked UM in 2021 as having the most DEI staff members in the nation, with 163 employees. The regents told The Detroit News the number has since grown, but they are not sure by how much.

report in 2024 by the New York Times on UM’s DEI initiatives estimated them to cost $250 million. UM Chief Diversity Officer Tabbye Chavous later said the New York Times story was “filled with misinformation, disinformation and, sadly, sexism.”

UM officials said Thursday they will shift the DEI resources to programs for students, “such as financial aid, mental health resources, pre-professional counseling and other efforts that strengthen community, promote a sense of belonging and expand accessibility.” 

“These decisions have not been made lightly. We recognize the changes are significant and will be challenging for many of us, especially those whose lives and careers have been enriched by and dedicated to programs that are now pivoting,” said the message, which also was signed by Laurie McCauley, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs; Marschall Runge, executive vice president for medical affairs; and Geoffrey Chatas, executive vice president and chief financial officer. 

“We are deeply grateful for the meaningful contributions of leaders, faculty and staff who have advanced our ongoing efforts to create an ever-moreinclusive and respectful community.”

But Robert Sellers, the James S. Jackson distinguished professor of psychology and an education professor at the University of Michigan, said he was extremely disappointed, angry and bewildered at the university’s decision.

“The university has framed diversity, equity and inclusion as a core set of values that resulted in many, many, many efforts that have been successful at the university to make it more welcoming,” Sellers said Thursday. “Every particular measure of importance the university has increased as its diversity increased.”

On X, UM Regent Sarah Hubbard posted a tweet announcing the change as she noted that the regents ended the use of diversity statements in faculty hiring, which is “now expanded university wide and statements related to a person’s identity or commitment to DEI will no longer be solicited or considered in admissions, hiring, promotion, awards or reviews for faculty and staff.” Hubbard supported the move as a way to promote ideological diversity on campus.

“We are eliminating bureaucratic overspending and making Michigan more accessible,” the Republican regent said. “I will continue to push for even greater financial support for talented students with financial need.”

Derek Peterson, a UM history professor and member of the Senate Advisory Committee on University Affairs, called the decisions “a pretty dramatic policy change put through without any attempt to engage faculty government.”

“It’s a capitulation, an embarrassment, a departure from our mission as a university,” Peterson said. “It turns the university’s back on what we thought were core values of this institution in the name of expediency.”

UM’s moves followed a mid-February Trump administration order giving Michigan schools and universities until the end of the month to dump diversity initiatives or risk losing federal money.

In a memo to educational institutions, the U.S. Education Department gave an ultimatum to stop using “racial preferences” as a factor in admissions, financial aid, hiring or other areas. Schools were given 14 days to end any practice that treats students or workers differently because of their race or lose their eligibility for federal money.

The Chronicle of Higher Education reported it has since tracked DEI changes at 270 college campuses in 38 states.

Among them are Ohio State University, which is closing its Office of Diversity and Inclusion and canceling some of its services. The University of Southern California, meanwhile, has announced plans to dissolve its university-wide Office of Inclusion and Diversity, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Other schools have said they will remain committed to building diversityon campus, while still nodding to the Trump administration’s push to dismantle DEI efforts.

Northeastern University’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has changed its name to “Belonging in Northeastern.”

Some institutions are distancing themselves from the PhD Project, an organization that helps Black and Latino students pursue business degrees. The U.S. Education Department cited the nonprofit when it announced March 14 it was investigating dozens of universities, including UM, for alleged racial discrimination.

The University of Kentucky, the University of Wyoming and Arizona State University all said they were discontinuing support for the PhD Project.

Student: ‘My heart is broken’

The move in the progressive Ann Arbor community Thursday sparked a backlash. Some students, such as junior Pragya Choudhary, said they feel betrayed by the university.

“How do you say you’re removing the office of DEI, but pledging to continue all of these things as if that’s not what the office of DEI was there for?” said Choudhary, who was in class when he heard the news. “How are you going to say that ‘Oh, we’ll still have these cultural events,’ when clearly we’re not going to, because you’re getting rid of the office that would help us put those events on?”

Choudhary chose to attend UM because the university celebrated diversity and he had hoped this would continue. In his first address to the university community in 2022, Ono pledged his commitment to diversity and inclusion efforts, promising to invest in and develop staff.

“This is, it’s flying in the face of every value I held this university to. My heart is broken,” Choudhary said.

The UM’s Thursday email acknowledged progress since the launch of the university’s DEI strategic plan in 2016. First-generation undergraduate students have increased 46%, while undergraduate Pell recipients rose more than 32%, driven in part by programs such as the Go Blue Guarantee free tuition program and Wolverine Pathways, a free college readiness course offered by seventh through 12th graders in poorer areas such as Detroit and Ypsilanti, according to UM officials.

“Over the course of our strategic efforts, we have heard strong pride in the university’s support for student-facing programs,” the UM message said. “We have also heard concerns about the balance of resources between administration and direct student support. Some in our campus community have voiced frustration that they did not feel included in DEI initiatives and that the programming fell short in fostering connections among diverse groups.”

University web pages will be evaluated for compliance with federal executive orders and guidance, the Thursday release said, and theuniversity’s general counsel will start an “expedited review” to make sure policies, programs and practices comply with federal law.

UM professor Sellers said he found it particularly disappointing that the university insinuated that DEI programs were not as successful as the data shows.

“If they choose to run and hide from DEI, at least have the courage to say they’re running and hiding from DEI,” Sellers said.

The decision to disband DEI efforts will affect the university’s ability to serve the broader state of Michigan, he said.

“This is how we like to refer to ourselves as ‘leaders and best,’ when, in fact, we are not leading and we are definitely not the best,” Sellers said.

Where savings will go

Savings from the shuttering of the two DEI offices will be used for the Go Blue Guarantee and go to families with incomes of $125,000 or less as well as to expand efforts like the Blavin Scholars Program, which helps undergraduate students who have experienced foster care or kinship care, according to the UM release.

The university will also maintain multicultural student spaces and residence halls like the Trotter Multicultural Center and the Spectrum Center for gender and sexuality resources.

Another initiative is to explore ways to help student achievement through “improved advising, counseling and pre-professional guidance, as well as continue investing in innovative approaches, such as 24/7 AI tutors and a personal AI assistant for every member of the community,” the university said.

Hubbard emphasized that there are benefits to ending the DEI offices and moving the money elsewhere.

“Ending DEI programs will also allow us to better expand diversity of thought and free speech on our campus,” the regent said. “The end of litmus test hiring and curtailment of speech stops now. People from all walks of life, representing a variety of ideologies, will be welcome at Michigan.

Among the moves was the UM board’s decision in October to adopt an institutional neutrality policy that prohibits university officials from taking a stance on political or social issues unless they are related to the internal governance of the university. Critics disagreed, saying university policy-making requires leaders to take stances on issues.

“As we move forward with creation of the Institute on Civil Discourse, I look forward to hosting a variety of perspectives on campus,” Hubbard said. “Today’s announcement follows a number of policy and process changes that are making our campus safer and stronger as a place of learning and academic excellence. I’m honored to be a leader at this amazing institution.”

Michigan lawmaker urges US Supreme Court to overturn gay marriage ruling

*This is being reported by FOX 2 Detroit.

The Brief

    • Michigan Rep. Josh Schriver is proposing a resolution that would urge the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn the ruling that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.
    • Schriver says allowing gay marriage has led to “religious persecution” and goes against “the sanctity of marriage.”
    • Gay marriage is banned in Michigan’s constitution, but is allowed due to the 2015 Supreme Court ruling that Schriver and the resolution’s co-sponsors wish to overturn.

LANSING, Mich. (FOX 2) – A Michigan lawmaker plans to introduce a resolution to the state House of Representatives, urging the United States Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the case that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.

Rep. Josh Schriver (R-Oxford), along with 12 co-sponsors, will introduce the House resolution following Tuesday’s session.

The backstory:

The resolution comes after Schriver posted on social media late in 2024 that gay marriage should be banned.

“America only ‘accepted’ gay marriage after it was thrusted into her by a perverted Supreme Court ruling,” he wrote in part on X. “Make gay marriage illegal again. This is not remotely controversial or extreme.”

Schriver doubled down on what he said in a statement, where he wrote that gay marriage offends God. 

In a release announcing the new resolution, Schriver wrote that Obergefell v. Hodges “is at odds with the sanctity of marriage, the Michigan Constitution, and the principles upon which the country was established.”

Without the Obergefill ruling, gay marriage would be illegal in Michigan due to an amendment voters passed in 2004. However, the Supreme Court decision supersedes that. 

Schriver went on to reference what he called “religious persecution” since the 2015 ruling, including a wedding venue that was fined for turning away an LGBTQ couple, and Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel attempting to ban adoption agencies from turning away same-sex couples for religious reasons. However, a judge later ruled that faith-based adoption agencies can turn away prospective parents because they are LGBTQ.

What they’re saying:

Fears that the Supreme Court may take another look at the ruling and overturn it arose after Roe v. Wade was overturned, and has increased as lawmakers begin introducing legislation aimed at the landmark case.

Lawmakers in other states, including IdahoMontanaNorth Dakota, and South Dakota, have also been pushing the Supreme Court to revisit the ruling and overturn it. 

The new resolution received pushback from Democrats, with state Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel releasing a statement condemning the resolution:

“Unfortunately, this isn’t a surprise coming from Josh Schriver and the right-wing extremists that populate Matt Hall’s Republican caucus – and it’s deeply dangerous. Schriver is attacking hundreds of thousands of Michiganders who are nurses, teachers, soldiers, and beloved members of the community.

“From spreading racist conspiracy theories to homophobic rhetoric, Schriver does not deserve to serve the people of Michigan, let alone sit on a politically motivated oversight committee in the state House. Thankfully, I know that Democrats will continue to fight for Michiganders’ civil rights and personal freedoms in the face of these ugly attacks.”

Gay marriage in Michigan

Because Michigan voters banned gay marriage in 2004, legalizing the practice would first require voters to remove the ban from the state constitution via ballot proposal.

Lawmakers have been pushing to codify same-sex marriage to protect it if Obergefell were to be overturned.

Under the existing amendment, if Obergefell were to be overturned, existing marriages in Michigan would be recognized, but future LGBTQ+ marriages would be banned, said Rep. Jason Morgan (D-Ann Arbor).

A similar scenario played out in 2022 when nationwide abortion was removed following a Supreme Court ruling. The overturning of that ruling allowed states to decide if they would allow abortions. Michigan had an existing abortion ban that was lifted after voters passed a proposal to allow the procedure.

After the Roe ruling, Justice Clarence Thomas said that the Supreme Court should reconsider rulings that legalized same-sex marriage and protected same-sex relationships, creating fear in states that don’t have protections in place.

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