Recent federal actions have created uncertainty around the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals, but Maryland law continues to provide strong protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This guidance explains those protections, how they interact with federal law, and what steps individuals can take if they experience discrimination. While legal developments at the federal level may impact certain rights, Maryland remains committed to upholding equality and inclusion for all Marylanders.
Read the Guidance on LGBTQIA+ Protections Under Maryland Law
Guidance for Maryland Schools: Supporting LGBTQIA+ Students
The Maryland State Department of Education released information for schools, administrators, educators, and families seeking guidance in supporting LGBTQIA+ students across the State.
Read the Guidance on Supporting LGBTQIA+ Students
Guidance for Maryland Institutions
It is important to know that Attorney General Anthony G. Brown recently provided updated guidance to key Maryland institutions, including schools, law enforcement agencies, and healthcare facilities, to clarify their responsibilities under federal and state laws. The following guidance is not for individual immigrants, but we are providing it to you so you can empower yourself with knowledge.
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Guidance Concerning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employment Initiatives: Attorney General Brown, along with 15 other attorneys general, have issued this guidance to help businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations operating in our respective states understand the continued viability and important role of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts (sometimes referred to as “DEI" initiatives) in creating and maintaining legally compliant and thriving workplaces.
Read the guidance on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employment Initiatives.
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For Schools: The Maryland State Department of Education has provided guidance to help students, families, and school administrators understand the rights of students – regardless of immigration status - and the responsibilities of schools in responding to immigration enforcement actions.
Read the Guidance for Schools.
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For Campuses and Universities: The Office of the Attorney General offers guidance to higher education institutions in Maryland to help them prepare for the possibility of federal immigration enforcement activities on their campuses.
Read the Guidance for Higher Education.
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For Law Enforcement: Attorney General Brown has issued updated guidance for Maryland law enforcement agencies outlining their role in federal immigration enforcement. This guidance ensures officers comply with the law while respecting constitutional rights and fostering trust with immigrant communities.
Read the Guidance for Law Enforcement.
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For Healthcare Facilities: In response to requests from Maryland's healthcare leaders, Attorney General Brown has issued guidance for healthcare facilities on handling immigration enforcement operations. The guidance helps providers understand their legal obligations while ensuring that all Maryland residents can access essential healthcare services without fear.
Read the Guidance for Healthcare Facilities.
By making these resources available, the Maryland Office of the Attorney General reaffirms our commitment to transparency and the protection of all who call Maryland home. We envision a Maryland where every Marylander lives in a safe, healthy community with equal opportunity and protections under the law.
Guidance on Civil Rights Protections Under Maryland Law
Attorney General Anthony G. Brown and the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights have released "
Know Your Rights," a 37-page guide clarifying civil rights protections under state law. The resource addresses discrimination in housing, employment, public accommodations, health services, and schools, with specific guidance for persons with disabilities, immigrants, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. Despite federal policy changes, Maryland law continues to provide robust anti-discrimination protections. Residents can contact the Civil Rights Division or MCCR for assistance.
El Fiscal General Anthony G. Brown y la Comisión de Derechos Civiles de Maryland han publicado "
Conozca sus Derechos", una guía de 37 páginas que aclara las protecciones de los derechos civiles según la ley estatal. El recurso aborda la discriminación en la vivienda, el empleo, los lugares públicos, los servicios de salud y las escuelas, con orientación específica para personas con discapacidades, inmigrantes y personas LGBTQIA+. A pesar de los cambios en la política federal, la ley de Maryland continúa brindando sólidas protecciones contra la discriminación. Los residentes pueden contactar con la División de Derechos Civiles o con la MCCR para obtener asistencia.