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LGBT ISSUES
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The Michigan Project for Informed Public Policy (MPIPP) is an initiative to convey accurate psychological and social science information about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) issues based on cumulative scientific research rather than competing political ideologies.
Why is MPIPP Needed?
In 2004 Michigan voters passed a state constitutional amendment that declared “the union of one man and one woman in marriage shall be the only agreement recognized as a marriage or similar union for any purpose.” This amendment has set in motion a series of consequences that are being expanded beyond the marriage debate. These further interpretations are adding to the legal, insurance, personal and societal discrimination against LGBT people in Michigan.
Goals of MPIPPThe goal of MPIPP is to help ensure equality for Michigan’s LGBT citizens by reducing discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identification.
In order to meet this goal, MPIPP coordinates educational efforts and programs that provide the latest scientific-based psychological information to inform public policy and opinion. MPIPP addresses such issues as the mental health consequences of workplace discrimination, hate crimes, harassment of LGBT in schools and communities, inequality for same-sex couples, and a lack of equal protection for lesbian/gay parents and their children.Through its affiliation with the American Psychological Association, the Rockway Institute and other organizations, the MPIPP is able to provide education and bring a coordinated focus to these issues.
Funding
MPIPP is funded by a grant from the Arcus Foundation to the Michigan Psychological Association Foundation (MPAF). MPAF was organized to pursue the goals of providing public and professional education that promotes the public mental health. MPAF is committed to science-based information and community-oriented action.