24-07-2025
Forum to tackle LGBTQ+ issues in mayor's race
Mayoral candidates are invited to discuss issues impacting queer and transgender residents Friday as part of Detroit's historic Black LGBTQ+ pride event, Hotter Than July.
Why it matters: LGBTQ+ advocates want to assure the next mayor has "a clear understanding" of the community's needs here in Detroit, says Roland Leggett, the forum 's moderator.
State of play: The conversation will cover social justice, LGBTQ+ issues and environmental issues like pollution and affordable utilities. It's co-hosted by the Michigan League of Conservation Voters and nonprofit LGBT Detroit.
As of early Thursday afternoon, the only confirmed candidate attending was former nonprofit CEO Saunteel Jenkins.
It's part of Hotter Than July's daylong Annual Gathering for LGBT+ Issues at the U of M Detroit Center.
If you go: The free event starts with an 8:30am breakfast, then the forum around 9:30am.
It also includes a "State of the Movement" conversation with City Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero and others.
What they're saying: LGBT Detroit executive director A. Nzere Kwabena tells Axios he's hoping to hear discussion about the national climate for LGBTQ+ rights and how the mayor of Michigan's biggest city can advocate for LGBTQ+ protections at the state level.
Between the lines: Leggett, the conservation league's election protection manager, says Mayor Mike Duggan worked to ensure Detroit earned a maximum score on the Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index, which measures cities' law and policy inclusivity for LGBTQ+ people.
