Your Rights in Massachusetts
GLAD's historic 2003 victory in Goodridge v. Department of Public Health made Massachusetts the first state in the U.S. to grant same-sex couples full marriage equality.
LGBT Issues
Anti-Discrimination Law
Massachusetts’ anti-discrimination law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression (effective July 1, 2012) and HIV status. More →
Family Law
Same-sex couples can marry in Massachusetts. Single gay people can adopt in Massachusetts; same-sex couples can jointly become the legal parents of a child. More →
Hate Crimes, Sex Laws and Police
Sexual orientation and gender identity or expression (effective July 1, 2012) are protected characteristics under Massachusetts’ hate crimes laws. More →
Students' Rights
Massachusetts law forbids discrimination in public schools on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity or expression (effective July 1, 2012). More →
HIV/AIDS Issues
HIV Anti-Discrimination Law
Massachusetts has enacted anti-discrimination laws protecting people with HIV from discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. More →
HIV Testing and Privacy
Massachusetts law requires informed written consent for HIV testing and release of HIV-related medical information. More →
Other HIV-Related Laws
Massachusetts law permits the Department of Public Health to establish needle exchange programs, but unfortunately requires "local approval" for the siting of a program. More →
GLAD’s Work in Massachusetts
Join Us At This Upcoming Event!
Summer Party
The Summer Party is held outside in the heart of Provincetown. Enjoy the view of the harbo... RSVP »
Join Us At This Upcoming Event!
14th Annual Spirit of Justice Award Dinner
In its 14th year, the Spirit of Justice Award Dinner is GLAD’s flagship event attracting... RSVP »
From the Docket
A.E.H. v. M.R.
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled unanimously September 28, 2012 that Massachusetts… More →
Legislative Advocacy
An Act Relative to Bullying in Schools
Massachusetts House Bill 454 and Senate Bill 206 would make much needed improvements to the state’s… More →
News
GLAD Applauds AMA Resolution Supporting Accurate Birth Certificates for Transgender People
Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) today applauded a decision by the American Medical Association (AMA) to support access to accurate birth… More →