Al Gray of Marquette, who holds two degrees from Northern Michigan University, was recently appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to the first statewide LGBTQ+ commission. Gray earned a bachelor's in philosophy and sociology in 2018 and a Master of Social Work in 2023. They serve as an LLMSW at Suunta Integrative Health, program coordinator for Trace Holistic Inc., and volunteer co-facilitator with the Upper Peninsula's Stand with Trans Teen support group, according to a press release.
Whitmer signed an executive order in June establishing the commission, which will advise the governor and director of the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity on policy matters impacting Michigan's LGTBQ+ community. These include eradicating discrimination; addressing other forms of inequality; improving and protecting health, safety and economic opportunity; and promoting LGBTQ+ culture, history and economic contributions to Michigan through coordinated efforts and advocacy across state government.
Gray was appointed to represent rural communities for a term expiring Nov. 29, 2027.