Your Rights
Spousal and Family Rights
- Your marriage is legally recognized by the state of Missouri.
- The Department of Veterans Affairs and the Social Security Administration recognize spousal benefits for same-sex marriages.
- Private employers may still provide domestic partners with any benefits they wish.
- Missouri has no laws limiting the rights of LGBT individuals to adopt.
Students' Rights
- Schools cannot "out" students without permission.
- Students who choose to be out are constitutionally protected to do so.
- Students may bring a same-sex date to prom and/or dress in the matter that they feel represents them.
- Students are able to form gay-straight alliances if other non-curricular clubs are allowed.
- Students have a right to feel safe at school and are protected against harassment.
Civil Rights
- Crimes that are knowingly motivated by sexual orientation are subject to enhanced penalties.
- Missouri's hate crimes law explicitly includes gender identity-motivated crimes under its broad definition of sexual orientation.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Download our LGBT in MO: Know Your Rights.
- Legally safeguard your relationships and assets through estate planning.
- Work to elect local and national politicians who support LGBT rights.
- Support organizations and community groups creating safe spaces and lifting up LGBT voices.
- Join ACLU of Missouri and help us fight for equality in our state.