I have been proud to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community throughout my life. As a state representative from Ferndale, I was not only proud to co-sponsor the expansion of the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, which would have protected against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity, but was also proud to stand with my community as important organizations for LGBTQ+ people like Affirmations were established. As your county executive, I will advance an equity agenda from day one that protects all residents of Oakland County, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity. Whether it is an elderly couple afraid of having to go back into the closet because they fear housing discrimination or a worker who fears losing their job, Oakland County’s LGBTQ+ community deserves equal protection under the law. That is why I will sign a resolution that prohibits any form of discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. We will be leaders in promoting a safe and secure place for anyone to live, work, and play.

In addition, we need to do better in ensuring that LGBTQ+ people are better represented in our government. From housing to education, so much of what we do disproportionately affect marginalized LGBTQ+ Americans. That is why I will make sure that LGBTQ+ voices are visible throughout Oakland County’s government, from the cabinet level down. I will enact a non-discrimination policy that protects any LGBTQ+ worker and prohibits any employee from discriminating against LGBTQ+ residents in services, activities, or programs. In addition, I will ensure that all county buildings have gender-neutral facilities.

Finally, we need to ensure that LGBTQ+ students are protected. That is why I will work with local officials and school districts to ensure strong anti-harassment and anti-bullying measures, and ensuring safe community spaces for students who need it.

I believe that every resident of Oakland County deserves to be treated fairly and equitably by their community. That is why we need to ensure that we are a leader in non-discrimination.