LGBTQ+ Equality

An individual holds a sign that says "Pride Is Still Protest" in the middle of a crowded pride parade

ACLU has been fighting for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people since 1936, when it brought its first gay rights case. Our goal is an America where LGBTQ+ people can live openly, with their identities, relationships and families respected. We fight discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, working for fair treatment on the job and in schools, housing, public places and health care.

The Latest

Press Release
Flamy Grant, a drag queen, is against a pink background with a pride flag waving next to her

ACLU of Tennessee Files Appeal Brief to Protect Free Speech Rights of Blount County Pride

Press Release
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ACLU of Tennessee Asks Court to Block Tennessee’s Anti-Transgender Driver’s License Rule

ACLU-TN and Holland & Associates PC filed a petition in Davidson County Chancery Court today challenging the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s (TDSHS) refusal to issue accurate driver’s licenses and state identification documents to transgender Tennesseans.
Press Release
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Families Respond to United States’ Position Change in U.S. v. Skrmetti

The Department of Justice notified the Supreme Court that the United States has changed its position in U.S. v. Skrmetti.
Issue Areas: LGBTQ+ Equality
News & Commentary
A pesron holding up a sign reading "A World Without Trans People Has Never Existed And Never Will" at a demonstration.

Trump's Executive Orders Promoting Sex Discrimination, Explained

A new executive order lays out a plan to erase transgender people’s existence under the law
Legislation
Feb 26, 2024

Protect trans people from discrimination in public spaces.

HB 1949/SB 278 criminalizes trans people and people whom another individual assumes is trans for entering restrooms consistent with their gender identity.
Position: Oppose
Legislation
Feb 19, 2024

Protect LGBTQ+ Youth in Foster Care & Adoption.

SB 1738/ HB 2169, would allow prospective adoptive or foster parents to disregard any government policy that requires acceptance of the sexual orientation or gender identity of a child, denying children their right to safe, supportive, and affirming placements.
Status: Signed by governor
Position: Oppose
Legislation
Feb 12, 2024

Oppose the flag ban and defend free speech.

SB 1722/HB 1605 would ban the display of most flags in public schools, particularly targeting flags that promote an “agenda,” such as Black Lives Matter flags or Pride flags.
Position: Oppose
Legislation
Jan 30, 2023

SB 1/HB 1 | Ban on Healthcare for Trans Youth

On 1/31, our legislators will try to pass legislation that will prevent trans Tennesseans – specifically trans youth – from accessing supportive, gender-affirming healthcare.
Status: Signed by governor
Position: Oppose