LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - The Michigan Supreme Court ruled Thursday the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act , the state’s anti-discrimination law, covers sexual orientation.
In a 5-2 ruling , the Michigan Supreme Court said the word “sex” in Michigan’s civil rights law applies to sexual orientation and not just gender.
Explainer: What the state Supreme Court ruling on discrimination means for Michigan
“Our residents deserve to live in a state that recognizes the value of diversity and rejects the notion that our own civil rights law could be used as a tool of discrimination,” said Attorney General Dana Nessel. “This ruling is not only a victory for the LGBTQ+ community, but for all Michigan residents, and one that’s long overdue.”
The lawsuit, Rouch World LLC et al v Michigan Department of Civil Rights et al
Background: Does a decades old Civil Rights law protect LGBTQ people? Michigan AG says it does
“This is a very positive ruling by the MI Supreme Court. For our state and region to have success and compete in a global economy, you have to be welcoming; you have to be inclusive. This is also about talent development, economic development and job creation.
This is one piece of that overall big picture and big vision effort on attracting and retaining the best talent in the world.”
“Today, Michigan is more free and fair than it was yesterday.
The Michigan Supreme Court has ruled decisively to confirm that our state’s civil rights laws protect our LGBTQ+ community. This is a monumental victory that ensures our LGBTQ+ community is seen equally by state law and protected by it.
As a mom, a governor, and proud ally of the community, I am so grateful for this ruling. It will save lives, protect families, and help ensure that every Michigander is treated with dignity and respect by law. For too long, LGBTQ+ Michiganders had been left out of our state’s civil rights protections. No longer. Because of this ruling, nobody can legally be fired from their job or evicted from their home because of who they love.”
“The Michigan Supreme Court’s ruling expanding civil rights protections to our LGBTQ+ friends and family is a tremendous victory for members of the community, for allies, and for every Michigander who believes in equality and justice for all.
Here in Michigan, we know that if one of us is left behind or left out, we are all worse off. Today’s decision extending civil rights to the LGBTQ+ community helps ensure that no matter who you are or who you love, you can make a life in Michigan knowing that you have the full protection of the law behind you.
Michiganders stand tall for one another, and I will keep fighting alongside Governor Whitmer to make our state more equitable and just for everyone.”
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