Each year, the Equality Federation Institute holds the Summer Meeting to bring together the sharpest minds and the most strategic players in the movement for LGBT equality. More than 160 leaders join us to connect and forge relationships, collaborate for future success and build momentum toward even greater wins in the communities we call home. Along with our state leaders, we welcome our colleagues working at the national and regional levels.

Even as we await a hopefully positive decision on marriage from the Supreme Court, we are experiencing attacks in our nondiscrimination efforts -- from state bans on local ordinances to religious exemptions -- along with a host of critical issues. This summer we will come together to plan and share our strategies for the work ahead.

That's why I am pleased to announce that registration is now open for Equality Federation Institute's 2015 Summer Meeting. Click here to reserve your spot!

The 2015 Summer Meeting will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina, July 22-25th and will be hosted by Federation member Equality North Carolina.

Over the past few years, North Carolina has placed itself on the map as a leader of historic change, in the South and beyond. From winning marriage equality to securing health care benefits to working with neighboring states to engage businesses in the fight for equality across the South, Equality NC has proved its commitment to addressing the most critical issues facing the LGBT movement.

Once you’ve registered, please consider submitting a workshop proposal today. The deadline is March 30th. Content can include anything that is relevant to the work of state equality groups. Past presentations have included issue briefings, skills trainings, and facilitated conversations about current challenges. We encourage you to think creatively about what knowledge and skills you and your organization have to share.

I am so excited to see you in North Carolina. Please do not hesitate to contact Ian Palmquist, our lead organizer of the meeting, if you have any questions.

We look forward to welcoming the movement’s savviest leaders to Charlotte, July 22 - 25. Make sure you’re one of them; register now!