About Us

Under the Governor’s Offices of Community Initiatives, the Commission on LGBTQIA+ Affairs was created by the 2021 Maryland General Assembly by HB130 - PDF - PDF - PDF and later altered by HB141 - PDF - PDF - PDF during the 2023 legislative session, which renamed the commission to the Commission on LGBTQIA+ Affairs and increased the number of members from 15 to 21. The Commission is mandated to assess the challenges facing LGBTQIA+ communities, study and establish best practices for inclusion, and offer testimony before legislative and administrative bodies.

Our mission

To serve LGBTQIA+ Marylanders by galvanizing community voices, researching and addressing challenges, and advocating for policies to advance equity and inclusion. 

Our vision

A Maryland where all LGBTQIA+ people are able to live full and authentic lives.

Our values

• Equity and Justice: Advocating for equity, systemic change, and centering our most vulnerable community members.
• Inclusion and Belonging: Creating affirming environments where historically excluded voices are uplifted, celebrated, and valued.
• Integrity and Accountability: Acting transparently, ethically, and responsibly for the communities we serve.
• Empowerment and Support: Providing resources, education, and support for individual and community growth.
• Compassion and Empathy: Approaching work with intentionality and care to foster understanding and healing.
• Collaboration and Community Focus: Working together across diverse communities to create systemic and collective change.
• Joy and Liberation: Making space for celebration and love, promoting environments where individuals thrive authentically and freely.
• Proactive and Innovative Progress: Continue to be a space of action, moving forward with new ideas and solutions.