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.
Chiles v. Salazar Case Impact on Minnesota
In March, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled 8-1 in favor of Kaley Chiles, a mental health practitioner who claimed her free speech was violated by the Colorado state law that protects youth from the practice of conversion "therapy." This practice is discredited, not based in science, and harmful to youth, as it rests on the false premise that LGBTQIA2S+ sexual orientations or gender identities are a problem that need to be "fixed." Youth exposed to this practice have increased risk of depression, anxiety, suicide, and many other social and emotional consequences.
However, the Colorado ruling is limited as it only impacts how conversion talk therapy can be regulated. It did not change the fact that conversion "therapy" is unsafe, unethical, and scientifically discredited. Check out this for more information on the history of conversion "therapy", the harmful consequences, and why the majority of medical associations do not support it.
Here in Minnesota we do still have protections against this outdated and harmful practice, including consumer protections and prohibitions on public dollars usage for conversion "therapy." In March, Senator Dibble also introduced SF4706 and SF4707, which seek additional protections for youth and vulnerable adults from this harmful practice. SF4706 establishes a cause of action, creating a pathway for accountability when licensed providers engage in conversion "therapy" that falls outside acceptable, appropriate care and results in harm. SF4707 addresses a related issue by ensuring that health insurance coverage reflects recognized standards of care by not covering conversion "therapy" practices that submit vulnerable Minnesotans to manipulation and harm.
The Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans testified and issued a letter in support of SF 4706 and 4707. . The Councils believes LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans are perfect as they are, and deserve supportive, high-quality care.
Children's Resumes Gender-Affirming Care
On April 6th, Children's Minnesota announced it was resuming gender-affirming care for youth after pausing it on Feb. 27th due to federal pressure. In March, Minnesota and a coalition of other states successfully secured a federal court ruling to block the Trump Administration's attempt to pressure providers into ending gender-affirming care for youth.
In this statement on their website, Children's states they have resumed the services in their Gender Health program that were temporarily paused. Children's is committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based, and compassionate care to trans and gender-diverse youth.
The Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans celebrates this decision and stands firmly in support of our trans community who deserve access to affordable, timely, and affirming healthcare.
MNQT is Hiring!
We're now accepting applications for the position of Legislative and Engagement Coordinator - Planner Senior.
This is a permanent, full-time, telework-eligible position that will support the Council’s efforts to advance policy through legislative advocacy, public engagement, and cross-sector collaboration. This position tracks and responds to legislation impacting LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, develops and promotes the Council’s policy agenda, and fosters strong relationships with both state leaders and community stakeholders.
The Legislative and Engagement Coordinator will develop accessible policy materials, coordinate public engagement efforts, build relationships across sectors, and collaborate with LGBTQIA2S+ communities.
Job posting closes 5/26/26. Job ID is 93700. Follow this link to learn more and apply.
MDE is Hiring!
MDE is accepting applications for an Education Consultant 3 - LGBTQ Education Specialist.
In this position, you will serve as the LGBTQ Education Specialist in the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Center. In this role, you will work to provide educational leadership, program development, consultation, and resources to increase the capacity and subject matter expertise within school districts related to LGBTQ students and programming. You will work with help schools create school inclusion policies and practices for a safer and more affirming learning environment for all students.
Please note the posting closes tomorrow 4/28! Job ID is 90203. Learn more and apply here.
On March 25th, Governor Walz signed an executive order to create a council (The Minnesota Truth Council) that will document the impacts of Operation Metro Surge and Operation PARRIS. The council will create a public record of both the harm endured and the generosity and resilience of Minnesotans across the state. The council will gather testimony, data, and firsthand accounts and will make recommendations to prevent future harm and support the state's recovery. The council will include up to 15 members and partner with The Advocates for Human Rights to collect stories and hold public meetings. To apply to be appointed to the council, visit the Secretary of State website.
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