Legislative Toolkit

Welcome to the comprehensive Legislative Toolkit for advancing non-discrimination protections for diverse family and relationship structures. This resource is designed to empower individuals and organizations who are passionate about creating more inclusive communities through local policy change.

In the United States, the nuclear family model no longer represents the majority of American families, and it's crucial that our laws and policies keep pace. This toolkit provides you with the knowledge, strategies, and resources needed to advocate for and pass local non-discrimination protections that recognize and respect all forms of ethical non-monogamy and diverse family structures.

Municipal nondiscrimination ordinances protect individuals from discrimination based on their family or relationship structure in areas like housing, business establishments, and public services. This means landlords, businesses, and employers cannot refuse service or treat people unfairly because they belong to non-traditional families, such as polyamorous, multi-generational, or step-families. However, practical aspects like sharing a Costco membership or adding multiple adults to health insurance depend on corporate, state, or federal policies, which the ordinances encourage but unfortunately do not directly change. This is really a first step to gaining political traction, meaning it is limited and a long way from gaining benefits of interest (e.g., expanding health insurance coverage), but nondiscrimination ordinances are a first step toward much needed change.

Whether you're a grassroots activist, a community organizer, or part of an established advocacy group, this toolkit offers step-by-step guidance to navigate the process of local legislative advocacy. From identifying allies and building coalitions to drafting legislation and engaging with elected officials, we've compiled best practices and practical advice to support your efforts.

Inside, you'll find:

• A comprehensive guide walking you through every stage of the advocacy process.

• Template language for various communication needs, from initial outreach to press releases.

• Educational packets for legislators with in-depth information to educate and persuade decision-makers.

Each section is designed to be both informative and actionable, providing you with the tools you need to make a real impact in your community. We've included case studies and success stories to inspire and guide you, as well as troubleshooting tips to help you overcome common challenges.

Remember, change starts at the local level. By using this toolkit to advocate for non-discrimination protections in your municipality, you're not only making a difference in your community but also contributing to a broader movement for relationship and family equality. We also encourage you to adapt these resources to your local context and use them creatively. Every community is unique, and your intimate knowledge of your area will be invaluable in this process.

If you run into trouble at any point or could just use a bit of support, we’re here to help! Please don’t hesitate to contact the authors of this toolkit at info@open-love.org, who represent a coalition of organizations working to advance rights and acceptance for diverse family and relationship structures.

Thank you for taking on this important work. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society that recognizes and protects all forms of loving, consensual relationships. Let's get started!