In this issue you will find:

• AFFIRM Pro - our new AFFIRM training is coming to Michigan and we have another just for you in July!

• October INQYR conference - Abstract deadline extended!

• More upcoming AFFIRM trainings

Michigan Children’s Services Administration continues to make progress on embedding SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression)-affirming principles and practices throughout the child welfare workforce. This is the primary goal of the SOGIE Learning Community, a 25-member collaborative effort of administrative, supervisory, and direct service staff representing all five regions of Michigan. The SOGIE Learning Community is implementing AFFIRM Pro in 2026 as the next important step in embedding SOGIE-affirmative practices in the workforce. A team of fifteen facilitators will be trained this month to implement AFFIRM Pro in their networks over the next 18-months. This is a very exciting step forward!

When professionals have a deeper understanding of the experiences of LGBTQ+ people, they are better able to help their LGBTQ+ clients by disrupting negative health and wellness outcomes AND achieving better results​. Our AFFIRM Pro training teaches facilitators how to improve the capacity of professionals in their organization so that they can be affirmative allies for LGBTQ+ youth and adults in their care.​

We are offering a 3-day, AFFIRM Pro training session open to the general public this summer! If you are a leader or trainer looking to expand the capacity of your organization to attract and care for LGBTQ+ clients and their families, this evidence-based training is for you! You will learn how to teach your colleagues about deconstructing assumptions, increasing self-awareness, and you will help strengthen their confidence to serve LGBTQ+ youth, young adults, and families across behavioral health and child welfare systems.

Call For Proposals Deadline Extended to April 30th!

INQYR Beyond Limits is an upcoming international conference in Toronto, Ontario for anyone who is committed to advancing the health, well-being, and rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ young people, and those who believe that research, practice, and community knowledge can and should drive real change. INQYR invites work that challenges disciplinary, geographic, methodological, and institutional boundaries. Submissions from community partners, practitioners, and students are encouraged as well as academic and scholarly work.

Conference Themes:

1. Cross-Border Collaborations and Global Issues

2. Health, Well-Being, and Community Care

3. Technology, AI, Digital Life, and Creative Methods