The ACLU believes that individuals should not be discriminated against based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

To that end, the ACLU deploys legal, educational and legislative resources to fight for full legal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals, whether in employment, schools, marriage or parenting.

What's Happening in Maine:

On May 6, 2009, Governor John Baldacci signed "An Act to End Discrimination in Civil Marriage and Affirm Religious Freedom" into law. 

The effort to pass marriage equality in the Legislature was the result of a strong campaign effort led by the ACLU of MAINE, EqualityMaine, Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders, and Maine Women's Lobby.  We collaborated with over 30 other non-profit organizations and the Religious Coalition for the Freedom to Marry, comprised of over 150 religious leaders from fourteen different religious denominations.

Unfortunately,  the marriage equality measure was defeated through a "people's veto" at the ballot box on November 3, 2009.

The ACLU of MAINE continues to advocate for marriage equality and equal treatment for all Maine families.

What's Happening Nationally:

To learn the latest on what the ACLU is doing to advance LGBT rights, please visit http://www.aclu.org/lgbt.