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Executive Directive Makes Michigan the 10th State Banning Bias Affects 55,000 in State's Executive Branch; 95% of Employees Triangle Foundation |
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"The opportunities and protections this will afford gay, lesbian and bisexual people are direct reflections of the Governor's vision of an inclusive and fair Michigan and a state that appreciates and values all of its citizens." "Governor Granholm has proudly signed this executive directive and noted that the employment practices of state government should promote public confidence in the fairness and integrity of government and should reflect a commitment to equal employment opportunities," said Liz Boyd, press secretary for Governor Granholm. "Governor Granholm is grateful to all the community organizations that provide input on this executive directive." "Triangle Foundation is very proud of the role we have played in bringing about this essential change in state policy, and we applaud the willingness and ready reception by the Governor to make it so," said Sean Kosofsky, Director of Policy for Triangle Foundation. "We are confident that, by example, the Governor will help to bring about fair and inclusive employment practices in the private sector, as well as help move the Legislature to finally amend the state's civil rights law, the Elliott-Larsen Act, to fully protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The Legislature has blocked fairness for far too long." "This is a terrific first step in protecting from discrimination. Triangle Foundation will continue to work diligently to ensure that all state employees are covered by this policy including prohibitions on discrimination based on gender identity or expression. It is still very difficult for many GLBT people to be "out" at work, but this new policy sends a signal that we are valued for what we bring to the workplace and that we can bring all of who we are to work," concluded Kosofsky. "This administration has been unwavering in its assurance that everyone in the state will have an equal chance to succeed and that performance and excellence will be the measures by which a person's employment status will be evaluated," Montgomery said. "Today's directive is a great example of what can be accomplished when the leadership is forward-looking and steadfast in a commitment to fairness and looking out for all the people of Michigan. For at least the last decade we were not so fortunate, and equality was not a high priority." |
Gov. Jennifer Granholm