OUR ACTIVITIES
EqualityToledo works to eliminate discrimination in our region based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression through education, activism, and other anti-defamation efforts. With your support, EqualityToledo:
Leads the Safe Schools Project, to help create a culture of safety that will make our schools free from harassment, bullying, and other forms of violence against any student or group of students. Supports a coalition of religious leaders and organizations in our community committed to the equality of all Ohioans, to promote understanding and empower people of faith from their rich faith traditions about LGBT equality. Advocates for all employers to implement full and inclusive LGBT anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies and practices in their workplaces. Educates our community about issues affecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and unmarried persons. Builds coalitions of individuals and groups in Northwest Ohio who share our mission. Networks and cooperates with other local, state, and national non-profit groups that are dedicated to working for equality. |
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OUR PAST
EqualityToledo
began as a response to the passage of Ohio’s Issue 1 amendment in
November 2004. The founding members were actively involved in opposing
Issue 1 and educating our communities about the harmful consequences of
its passage. Despite the diligent efforts of numerous concerned
citizens, the Issue 1 amendment became Article 15, Section 11, of the
Ohio Constitution. It passed because of the lack of effective statewide
coalitions in the the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community
and its allies. Equality Toledo is our answer to this deficiency. EqualityToledo is working to end discrimination through education and advocacy.
OUR PRESENT
In
2009, EqualityToledo underwent a comprehensive Strategic Planning
session. This process gave the organization the chance to identify our
strengths, recognize our achievements, determine where we need
improvements, and acknowledge the threats we face as an LGBT
organization. The result of this planning is “Our Roadmap to Equality.”
Our Roadmap to Equality has three ongoing goals, including visibility, diversity, and developing a pride event.
Visibility. We are committed to communicating more—through our newsletters and e-mail alerts—with our members. There will also be an increase in events with our projects—Safe Schools, Equality @ Work, and Faith & Fairness.
Diversity. Our Board and our membership must reflect the diversity of the community, and we’re committed to taking steps to reach out and achieve these goals.
Pride
Event. A pride event
organized for the regional community helps raise awareness about the LGBT
community and our contribution to the community-at-large.
OUR FUTURE
Civil Rights and Advocacy. We work on the local level to ensure LGBT equality and collaborate with our many partners to achieve the same equality at the state and national level.
Community Space. We are exploring a community center for Northwest Ohio. Such a space may provide lasting benefits for LGBT community over many years.
Increasing
Our Staff. Most
importantly, a full-time staff is key to help accomplish our goals. Increasing
membership numbers, seeking additional grant resources, and using our best
fundraising strategies will help us raise our revenue, which in turn, increases
our staff personnel and our impact on the community.
