LGBTQ Equality

Rainbow flag waving in wind

We work to ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people can live openly and enjoy equal rights and personal autonomy. We advocate for non-discrimination laws and policies, and oppose attempts to legalize discrimination.

The Latest

News & Commentary
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July Updates: ICE Out laws and Major Court Victories

Dive into the biggest news in our July e-newsletter, including our victory at the U.S. Supreme Court, how you can help get ICE out of Maine, and more.
News & Commentary
Birthright Citizenship Rally at SCOTUS

The Supreme Court Term in Review

Catch a recording of our discussion covering the court's role and what these decisions mean for Maine.
Press Release
ACLU: Share image

Appeals Court Rules Private Schools Receiving State Funds Cannot Discriminate

The U.S. Court of Appeals rejected arguments from religious schools asserting they should be exempt from laws prohibiting discrimination based on faith, gender identity, and sexual orientation even when receiving state funds.
Issue Areas: LGBTQ Equality, Religious Liberty
Court Cases: Crosspoint Church v. Makin – Separation of Church and State, St. Dominic Academy v. Makin – Separation of Church and State
Press Release
Empty classroom with green chalkboard on wall at end

Civil Rights Organizations Urge Students, Parents, and Staff to Know Their Rights Ahead of School Start

The ACLU of Maine, EqualityMaine, and GLAD Law have released a comprehensive guide ranging from LGBTQ+ and immigrant students’ rights to staff free speech and student protest.
Issue Areas: Youth Rights, LGBTQ Equality, Disability Rights, Freedom of Expression, Immigrants' Rights, Indigenous Justice

Cases, Campaigns & Legislation

Court Case
Jul 2, 2026

St. Dominic Academy v. Makin – Separation of Church and State

Crosspoint Church sought an exemption from Maine law so it could discriminate against students while receiving state funds. The right to discriminate has never been recognized by any court, and any school that wants to participate in state educational programs must play by the same rules as all others.
Court Case
Jul 2, 2026

Crosspoint Church v. Makin – Separation of Church and State

Crosspoint Church, which operates Bangor Christian School, sought an exemption from state law so it could openly discriminate against LGBTQ students while receiving taxpayer education funds at the same time.