In response to growing concerns about state and federal challenges to LGBTQ rights, Delta College’s student-led group, Pioneers Rising will host Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel via Zoom, along with other state and local leaders in-person, to discuss potential threats and responses.
 
Along with Nessel, the distinguished panel of experts and advocates include:

• Emme Zanotti, director of Advocacy and Civic Engagement at Equality Michigan
• Scott Ellis, executive director of Great Lakes Bay Pride
• Aya Kirn, Delta College student and transgender activist

Attorney General Nessel will open the program by addressing the potential threats facing LGBTQ individuals in Michigan under the current Trump administration and its executive orders. She will highlight how recent federal actions could impact civil rights protections, healthcare access and legal recognition for LGBTQ citizens.
 
A key focus will be the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, Michigan’s landmark legislation that codifies LGBTQ protections, including marriage equality and non-discrimination rights. While this law has been a critical safeguard, Nessel and others will outline concerns about federal rollbacks that could undermine these protections.
 
“There is no room for discrimination in our country, yet Donald Trump and his administration have repeatedly attacked the rights of the LGBTQ community,” said Attorney General Nessel. “From banning transgender individuals from serving in the military to targeting funding for research into sexuality and gender, the administration’s actions have sought to erode fundamental freedoms. We cannot remain silent while the federal government strips away hard-won progress, and I look forward to discussing my office’s efforts to protect and uphold the rights of LGBTQ individuals.”
 
Beyond hearing from experts, attendees will have the opportunity to actively participate in a deliberative dialogue, a structured discussion format that encourages open conversation and critical thinking about the potential erosion of LGBTQ protections.
 
“This event isn’t just about informing people, it is about engaging them,” said Kirn. “We want to empower students and community members to understand the threats to LGBTQ rights and take action.”
 
Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn how they can help protect LGBTQ rights in Michigan.
 
Contact Pioneers Rising at pioneersrising@gmail.com, for more information or to request reasonable accommodations.