We work to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and gender non-conforming people can live openly without discrimination and enjoy equal rights, personal autonomy, and freedom of expression and association. 

Do you have a story to tell about what being trans or gender non-conforming in Missouri means for you? Share it with us.

Missouri Nondiscrimination Act (MONA)

For more than 20 years, the Missouri Nondiscrimination Act (MONA) has been filed in the Missouri House and Senate. MONA would add sexual orientation and gender identity to Missouri’s Human Rights Act, which currently prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations for other protected categories, including race, sex, and national origin.

The state legislature has delayed MONA’s passage since it was first introduced by Rep. Steve McLuckie in 1998. It is beyond time for Missouri to pass MONA to protect people from discrimination based on who they love or who they are.

Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Rights

The ACLU of Missouri works empower local trans communities and to help cis (or non-transgender) Missourians learn how to be better allies. To combat the backlash against transgender people and continue to make progress towards full equality, we must educate the public, the media, and lawmakers.  

We are amplifying complete, joyful stories of who transgender and gender non-conforming people are, why anti-transgender policies are harmful, and how we will no longer wait to be included in the communities that are granted legal protections in their home state. 

Last year, Missouri narrowly avoided anti-trans laws from passing out of the legislature due to hard work and dedication of trans advocates, parents, and allies. However, both Governor Mike Parson and Senate Majority Floor Leader, Caleb Rowden, have said publicly that anti-trans bills targeted students, including bans on sports participation and lifesaving medical care, are a top priority in 2023. In order to fight these harmful bills, we will need to expand our coalition and build public support to send a loud and clear message to the politicians in Jefferson City… Leave our kids alone! 

You are the best advocate to change the hearts and minds of our neighbors. If you are interested in sharing your story or experiences, send us a message.

Telling Joyful Stories of Community


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