2026 Focus Areas

With the ongoing assault on trans & queer members of our community directly from the federal government, and as we continue to navigate this period without a full-time Executive Director, we are developing our strategy for how we approach the challenging years ahead. One thing is certain: 

WE WILL NOT BACK DOWN!

Since 1989, Forum for Equality has led the charge in every civil right battle for our diverse LGBTQ+ community in Louisiana. With the support of committed individuals like you, we will continue to advance the fight. Your financial support is more critical now than ever.

Where will your financial contributions go in 2025:

Continue Our Presence at the Capitol in Baton Rouge - We will prioritize our lobbying efforts, prepare compelling committee testimony, and collaborate with allied legislators and advocates to safeguard our communities.

Opposing HB 578 & HB 1137 - We are actively fighting two harmful bills in the 2026 legislative session. HB 578, the so-called "Restoring Biological Truth Act," would strip the word "gender" from dozens of Louisiana statutes and legally erase transgender and gender nonconforming people from state law. HB 1137 would prohibit employers from disciplining employees who deliberately misgender their coworkers — a direct attack on the safety and dignity of trans workers in Louisiana.

Supporting HB 808 & the Employment Non-Discrimination Act - We are proud to support HB 808, which would modernize Louisiana's outdated HIV criminalization laws by bringing them in line with current medical science and public health best practices. We are also championing — for the 33rd consecutive year — the passage of a statewide employment non-discrimination bill that would make it illegal to fire or refuse to hire someone because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is long past time that LGBTQ+ Louisianans have the same workplace protections as everyone else.

We Need You — Volunteer With Us! - Forum for Equality runs on the passion and dedication of community members like you. We are currently seeking volunteers to fill the following roles:

  • Communications Director

  • Vice President

  • Development Director

  • Fundraising Manager

  • Donor Relations Manager

  • Webmaster

If you are interested in lending your skills and time to the fight for LGBTQ+ equality in Louisiana, please reach out to us. Every role matters, and every volunteer makes us stronger.