Episode 82: State by State: The Ongoing Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights

In this episode of "Gathering Ground," Mary sits down with three powerhouse advocates — Dr. Latonya Penny, Cathy Renna, and Illinois State Rep. Kelly Cassidy — for a timely conversation about what LGBTQ+ rights look like across the U.S.From legislative battles to grassroots resistance, the episode traces the highs, the heartbreaks, and the hope fueling this moment. Guests reflect on the real-life impact of policy wins and setbacks, the resilience of LGBTQ+ communities in the South, and the growing need for coalitions that center intersectionality, joy, and long-term strategy.Episode Highlights:- Dr. Penny on how Southern LGBTQ+ leaders are resisting burnout and building power despite political pressure- Illinois State Representative Cassidy on expanding coalitions beyond shared identity or ideology, and why it works- Cathy Renna on executive orders, misinformation, and why local education and media matter more than everLinks and Resources- Laughing Gull Foundation – www.laughinggull.org- National LGBTQ Task Force – www.thetaskforce.org- Rep. Kelly Cassidy – www.repcassidy.comIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Gathering Ground and leave us a review! Follow Morten Group, LLC on Instagram @mortengroup for more updates.