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The Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans works for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for Minnesota’s community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender expansive, queer, intersex, asexual, and/or two-spirit.
MNQT Staff:
- Emma Watts, Executive Director
emma.watts@state.mn.us
- Angelica Gentile, Senior Operations Specialist
angelica.gentile@state.mn.us
- Kelsey Waits, Research Director
kelsey.waits@state.mn.us
Stay updated with MNQT:
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Dear rainbows, rebels, and radiant souls,
It’s a privilege to serve as Vice Chair of the Council for LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans. I’m passionate about building systems—and communities—that work for everyone. I am a state employee, and my full-time role is at MNIT serving DNR. I focus on connecting people and technology in ways that are thoughtful, inclusive, and effective, and that same drive fuels my work with the Council.
I also founded MNclusive in 2018, a statewide queer employee resource group (ERG) open to all Minnesota state employees across all agencies. MNclusive is a space for connection, advocacy, and yes—some well-placed GIFs and joyful moments. It’s proof that even in government, we can build spaces that are vibrant, affirming, and deeply human. Much of the work that I’ve done with MNclusive has been influential in creating policies and procedures that are more inclusive to our community, though I also do some fun stuff like organizing the State of Minnesota’s involvement in Twin Cities Pride.
I believe in the power of collective voices to shape policy, challenge inequities, and celebrate the full spectrum of our identities. Whether we’re testifying at the Capitol, collaborating across agencies, or creating space for LGBTQIA2S+ folks to thrive in their workplaces, I’m proud to be part of a Council that reflects the strength and brilliance of our communities.
Thanks for being part of this journey. Let’s keep doing the work—and let’s not forget to bring a little joy with us along the way.
In solidarity,
KB Brietzke (They/Them)
IT Business Services Supervisor, MNIT | Vice Chair, Council for LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans
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We are delighted to welcome Alyson Rodway, Reneka Evans, and Oby Ballinger to the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans! Watch for more information on our new Council Members coming soon. |
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Calling all organizations, service providers, and entities – complete MNQT’s anonymous Organization & Provider Survey to ensure your voice and needs are heard in our three-part Community Needs Assessment!
The Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans is conducting a comprehensive community needs assessment, including this statewide survey of organizations that serve – in any capacity – the LGBTQIA2S+ community. This survey is an opportunity for organizations to share about their work, their experiences working with the State of Minnesota, and the challenges they may be facing. Learn more here.
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Trans people are blamed and in danger. They deserve neither.
MNQT's Executive Committee published an opinion piece in the Star Tribune earlier this month. Read on for the full text:
It’s been a violent summer. Legislators shot in their homes. Children shot in church. An activist shot at a rally. Just to name a few. And no matter where the bullets fly, or from whom, trans people are unfairly and violently targeted in the immediate aftermath. In the wake of this violence, there have been calls to “tone down the rhetoric.” The question is: Will broadly toning it down stop the violence against trans people or allow it to grow in the shadows? To answer that, we have to understand what rhetoric is — and attempt to simplify something that’s been debated for centuries. Rhetoric is the way we use words to influence what people think, feel or do. Because it is persuasive in nature, politics has always relied on rhetoric, and it always will.
That’s why “toning it down” misses the point and falls dangerously short of what is needed. Softer words and quieter conversation will not save trans lives. They will not unring the bell nor protect us from the impacts of disinformation. Minnesota has the highest percentage of trans adults in the country, and we are in danger. We do not have time for you to tone it down on our right to live.
We urge leaders to elevate this call: Violence against trans people is unacceptable. Demand trans lives be seen as valued, as is any other life. Turn up the volume and vigor when you say that we are worth saving. Like power, rhetoric comes with great responsibility. And right now, we need you to use both, responsibly.
Wrap your words around us like armor and tell our truths: that we are less likely to commit violence, that we are more likely to be victims of it, and that we have a substantially higher mortality rate than our non-trans counterparts.
When you say these things, say them with your whole chest because the problem is not rhetoric itself, it’s what the rhetoric inspires. And right now, we need you to inspire people to see our humanity and worth.
You do not have to understand us to believe our lives should not be threatened. You do not have to agree with us to shield us from violence. But you do have a duty to ensure that all Minnesotans — including us — can live in safety.
We are Minnesotans — just like you.
Theo Casio is chair of the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans. KB Brietzke is the council’s vice chair. Bibi Black is its treasurer. Ogichidaakwe (Selena Garza) is council secretary.
Gift link to the Star Tribune article
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MNQT will be tabling at this event hosted by the MNclusive ERG at the Capitol Rotunda on Thursday, November 20th at 10am. More information to come as the date approaches.
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Upcoming Council Meetings
Regular Council Meeting:
Thursday, November 13th, 2025: 5:00pm - 7:00pm.
Next Executive Committee Meeting:
Wednesday, December 17th: 8:00am - 9:00am.
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