State-based organizations across the country are making change in the communities we call home -- where the work is hard, but the impact is great. Nearly every week, we hear about another victory that provides LGBT people with the protection, respect, and dignity they need and deserve, but far too often, these wins go unsung by the broader LGBT movement.

At the Federation, we’re committed to telling the story of these victories. And this week, we're headed to Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, South Carolina, and New Mexico.

• In Michigan, Kalamazoo Township and Meridian Township passed ordinances banning discrimination against LGBT people in employment, public accommodations, and housing. These policies are a big win for the Unity Michigan Coalition, of which Equality Michigan is a member. 
• In Missouri, the University of Missouri expanded health benefits so that all employees, gay and straight, can provide basic healthcare for those they love. Congratulations to PROMO on this important step forward!
• Thanks to the work of Garden State Equality, a bill banning the abusive practice of conversion therapy against LGBT children and teens is waiting for Governor Chris Christie's signature after passing the Senate and Assembly.
• South Carolina Equality has received an $8,000 grant from Richland County to launch a "Know Your Rights" campaign to educate the state's LGBT community. Richland County Council members voted to provide this financial contribution as a way of further supporting LGBT people after passing a nondiscrimination ordinance in recent years.
• In New Mexico, thanks to the work of Equality New Mexico, the Santa Fe County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution supporting the freedom to marry in the Land of Enchantment.

What else? Let us know about a win in your community, and we’ll feature it in an upcoming edition of Unsung Victories! Just send an email to communications@equalityfederation.org.