Dear Members of the Michigan LGBTQ+ Centers Network,

We, the undersigned members and allies of the LGBTQ+ communities across the state of Michigan, urgently call upon the Michigan LGBTQ+ Centers Network to take immediate action in support of a ceasefire statement by Pride (June 1, 2024) to protect and prevent further loss of innocent lives in Palestine.   

As LGBTQ+ individuals, we understand firsthand the impact of discrimination, violence, and oppression. We recognize that the ongoing conflict in Palestine not only results in immense suffering and loss of life for Palestinians but also exacerbates the vulnerabilities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals living in the region. LGBTQ+ Palestinians are particularly vulnerable to violence and persecution, and the lack of a ceasefire only compounds their struggles.

It is vital for all of us to provide support to our LGBTQ+ siblings that have been underrepresented and underserved. For LGBTQ+ organizations to encourage diversity, equity and inclusion, the leadership at LGBTQ+ organizations must understand that oppression of any community disproportionately impacts the LGBTQ+ people in that community. Therefore, efforts towards equity, safety and autonomy for all vulnerable communities will benefit the LGBTQ+ community.

We urge the Michigan LGBTQ+ Centers Network to:

1. Publicly support a permanent ceasefire statement by the beginning of  Pride (June 1, 2024) that explicitly includes protection for LGBTQ+ individuals in Palestine.
2. Allocate behavioral health services specifically for local Michigan LGBTQ+ community members impacted by the conflict. This includes providing access to mental health resources and support services to address the trauma and distress experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals affected by the violence.
3. Commit to facilitating healing discussions within the LGBTQ+ community to address the impact of the conflict and promote solidarity and understanding.

By taking these actions, the Michigan LGBTQ+ Centers Network can demonstrate its unwavering commitment to promoting peace, justice, and equality for all individuals, including LGBTQ+ Palestinians. Our community has a long history of resilience and advocacy, and it is imperative that we use our collective voice to advocate for an end to the violence and to stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals and communities in Palestine.

We urge the Michigan LGBTQ+ Centers Network to use its platform and influence to support a ceasefire statement by the beginning of  Pride (June 1, 2024).  The work towards protecting BIPOC communities, refugees, religious minorities, disabled and other vulnerable and marginalized people is essential for LGBTQ+ organizations to center.  As in the past, this work towards justice is not always popular, but requires leadership that understands what benefits our most vulnerable family will benefit us all. LGBTQ+ organizations that make a statement of support for a ceasefire will be supporting  vulnerable LGBTQ+ Palestinians. In addition, a ceasefire statement would also voice support for other marginalized LGBTQ+ folks, including LGBTQ+ Arab, Muslim, and other large parts of the LGBTQ+ community invested in and advocating for a ceasefire.  

Let us join together in advocating for peace, justice, and equality for all individuals, both locally and globally.

 Sincerely,

 Michigan LGBTQ+ Community Members

www.change.org/MICeasefirePride

IG:  @MICeasefirePride