Published in the June/July 2025 Edition By Johanna M. Dolan
As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s important to take a look at where we are and where we could be heading. As you probably know, Maryland is a leader in advancing LGBTQ rights. Our state offers us robust protections across various sectors. However, recent federal shifts have introduced challenges that require renewed vigilance and advocacy. This article looks into the current landscape of LGBTQ rights in Maryland, highlighting what's at stake, how to take action, and ways to get involved in advocacy.
Current Protections in Maryland
Maryland law provides comprehensive safeguards against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Key protections include:
Healthcare: The Maryland Department of Health ensures that LGBTQ individuals access necessary medical services without discrimination. The Trans Health Equity Act of 2023 confirms the right of Transgender individuals to receive gender affirming care through Medicaid in Maryland.
Education: Schools are to respect students' gender identities, including using chosen names and pronouns.
Employment and Housing: State laws prohibit discrimination in employment and housing, ensuring equal opportunities for LGBTQ individuals.
Challenges Amid Federal Policy Changes
Despite these state-level protections, recent federal actions have posed significant challenges:
Healthcare Access: An executive order issued by President Trump aims to restrict gender-affirming care for individuals under 19, threatening the availability of essential healthcare services. A federal judge in Maryland has temporarily blocked this order, but the situation remains fluid.
Educational Content: The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case involving Montgomery County parents seeking to opt their children out of classes featuring LGBTQ-themed storybooks, citing religious objections. The outcome could impact how LGBTQ topics are addressed in educational settings.
What's at Stake
This convergence of supportive state laws and restrictive federal policies creates a complex environment:
Healthcare: Access to gender-affirming care (in conservative states) and federal funding (in progressive states) is under threat, potentially leading to increased health risks for transgender youth.
Education: Legal battles over curriculum content could influence the inclusivity of educational materials, affecting LGBTQ representation and acceptance.
Legal Precedents: Decisions made in these cases may set national precedents, influencing the balance between state protections and federal policies.
How to Take Action
Engagement and advocacy are crucial in safeguarding and advancing LGBTQ rights:
Stay Informed: Regularly update yourself on policy changes and legal cases affecting the LGBTQ community.
Support Legal Challenges: Contribute to organizations fighting discriminatory policies through donations or volunteer work.
Contact Legislators: Communicate with state and federal representatives to express support for LGBTQ-friendly legislation.
Ways to Get Involved in Advocacy
Maryland offers many avenues for advocacy and support, including:
FreeState Justice: As Maryland's leading LGBTQ legal services nonprofit, they engage in policy advocacy and provide legal assistance.
The Pride Center of Maryland: As a hub for the LGBTQ community, they offer resources, support services, and cultural events.
The Frederick Center: Focused on supporting LGBTQ individuals and families in the Frederick area, they provide various programs and advocacy initiatives.
Maryland Commission on LGBTQIA+ Affairs: This state commission assesses challenges, studies best practices for inclusion, and testifies to legislative bodies.
And Many Others!
Maryland's commitment to LGBTQ rights remains strong, but ongoing federal challenges necessitate active engagement and advocacy. By staying informed and involved, we can continue to protect and advance the rights of the LGBTQ community in our state. So, as you celebrate, remember also to advocate!
