EqualityMaine

EqualityMaine is Maine oldest and largest statewide civil rights and advocacy organization, dedicated to securing and defending full equality, dignity, and justice for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people. Established in 1984 following the tragic hate crime death of Charlie Howard in Bangor, the organization has led historic grassroots campaigns that have shaped Maine civil rights landscape, including winning statewide nondiscrimination protections, relationship recognition, and marriage equality.

Operating through both policy advocacy and the charitable EqualityMaine Foundation, the organization works across urban, coastal, and rural communities to build a state where every person can live authentically and without fear of discrimination. Education and youth empowerment represent a central pillar of the foundation work. The flagship New Leaders Project provides immersive leadership development camps and weekend summits for middle and high school students, equipping young changemakers with the skills, confidence, and community networks needed to lead Gay-Straight Alliances and advocate for inclusive policies in their hometown schools.

EqualityMaine also collaborates extensively with school boards, superintendents, and teachers unions, offering professional development workshops, anti-bullying resources, and guidance on supporting transgender and gender-expansive students in K-12 classrooms across Maine. For older adults, the organization coordinates the SAGE Maine initiative, delivering social connection, resource navigation, and healthcare advocacy to ensure that LGBTQ+ seniors can age with dignity, respect, and community support in their home communities throughout the state.

Community mobilization and civic engagement remain vital components of the organization ongoing mission. EqualityMaine convenes regional town halls, coalition summits, and grassroots organizing trainings that empower local leaders to address local nondiscrimination issues, healthcare disparities, and rural isolation. The organization also organizes major annual celebrations, including the annual Equality Awards gala, Great Falls Pride in Lewiston-Auburn, and community gatherings that celebrate queer culture and honor community trailblazers.

Through strategic coalition building, EqualityMaine partners with healthcare providers, faith communities, labor organizations, and racial justice leaders to ensure that civil rights protections remain robust and accessible to all Mainers across every county. Staff organizers provide rapid-response support to local communities confronting discriminatory local policies or school board challenges, helping parents, students, and educators organize effective local responses. The organization also produces voting guides, policy scorecards, and civic education materials to keep community members informed about legislative actions impacting LGBTQ+ families. In addition, the organization coordinates leadership development fellowships, grassroots advocacy days, and mentorship circles for emerging community advocates, youth leaders, and grassroots organizers across the state.

Community members, educators, and youth can connect with regional organizers and access comprehensive educational toolkits online or at the Portland office. Supporters can get involved by volunteering during youth retreats, serving on event host committees, participating in nonpartisan civic outreach, or making tax-deductible donations to ensure lasting equality and social justice across Maine.