Why We Must Vote to Protect LGBTQ+ Rights in Michigan
Community voices: Michigan LGBTQ+ leaders weigh in
Ahead of the 2024 general election, Pride Source asked community leaders to weigh in on the important issues facing the Michigan LGBTQ+ community. State Rep. Emily Dievendorf, who is running for re-election in Michigan’s 77th House District, writes about the importance of protecting LGBTQ+ rights in Michigan. Find other community perspectives here.
For many of us, every four years it feels like our basic rights, our dignity and our freedoms are on the line. Nationwide, we are seeing attacks on our ability to live openly, access healthcare and simply exist without fear. I understand if you’re feeling burnt out. But here in Michigan, we really do have the power to ensure that our state remains a place where equality, justice and compassion lead the way. That power comes through our vote.
I am running for re-election to state representative for the 77th District because I believe in a government that listens to, involves and represents everyone. My vision for a collaborative and representative democracy is simple: a government that serves all of us, not just the wealthiest or most powerful. I believe our democratic process works best when it amplifies and prioritizes our underrepresented and underserved communities, ensuring that their needs are met and their rights protected.
During my time in the Michigan Legislature, I’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive. This has meant fighting for affordable housing, expanding access to healthcare and advocating for a criminal justice system that treats all people with respect and dignity. I know that our community is complex and intersectional, and I will continue to fight so that the most marginalized among us feel safe and heard.
As a non-binary person myself, I recognize the impact of being referred to with the correct name and pronouns. That’s why I have proudly sponsored legislation to remove barriers to legal name changes, ensuring that trans and nonbinary folx can more easily align their legal documents with their identity. Life as a queer person can be hard enough, and I will continue to fight for policy that allows LGBTQ+ folks to live authentically without unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles.
Too many members of our community still face discrimination, violence and systemic barriers that prevent them from living their fullest lives. In my second term, I will continue to fight to protect worker rights, expand economic opportunities, defend civil rights and ensure that every person has access to the resources they need to succeed. I will advocate for environmental justice, so that no community is left bearing the burden of pollution or climate change and push for affordable housing initiatives that recognize housing as a fundamental right, not a privilege. I believe in protecting the rights of all individuals — whether it’s defending reproductive rights, fighting for criminal justice reform or cementing Michigan as a safe haven for LGBTQ+ folks in the Midwest.
The extremist forces opposing our rights are relentless. They are trying to push us back into the shadows, to strip away the legal protections we have fought so hard to win. But together, we are stronger. That’s why voting this year is not just a civic duty — it’s an act of resistance.
Visit vote411.org and michiganvoting.org to learn about the candidates and issues on your ballot and to make a voting plan.
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