1. Legislative Update - Equality Ohio is working hard this summer to organize in support of pro-equality legislation.

The Comprehensive Safe Schools Act:  A broad coalition of educators and advocates are organizing in support of a stronger anti-bullying law in Ohio that will help protect all of Ohio’s children.  (See Amended HB 116, HB 155, HB 208, SB 127)  To learn more and support this effort, go to safeschoolsohio.com and sign the petition!

The Equal Housing and Employment Act:  The Equal Housing and Employment Act, which would prohibit discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations based on sexual orientation and gender identity, will be introduced in the Ohio legislature on September 27th.  Representatives Nickie Antonio and Ross McGregor will be co-sponsoring the bill.  Save the date, and plan to join us that day for a rally and a press conference!  We will be asking you to call you legislators to ask them to support this bill, so please keep an eye out for further information and instructions. 

2.  Ohio Supreme Court Rules on Same-Sex Parenting Rights -  On July 12, 2011, the Ohio Supreme Court announced its decision in In re Mullen(Slip Opinion No. 2011-Ohio-3361) and made it more difficult for a non-biological parent in a same-sex relationship to prove permanent shared custody of a child.  Although Ohio law allows for shared permanent custody without explicitly requiring a written agreement, the Court’s decision today effectively makes such an agreement a requirement in the event of a breakup, adding additional uncertainty and burden to families of same-sex couples in Ohio. More.

3. National Hate Crimes Report Released - Report shows second highest murder rate ever recorded. Transgender people and people of color are most targeted communities for severe hate violence.

To see the press release click here.  

To see the full report click here.

For more information contactlee@equalityohio.org.