Protecting the Rights and Providing Appropriate Services to LGBTQIA2S+ Youth in Out-of-Home Care - Michigan

Date: January 2023

Rights of LGBTQIA2S+ Youth in Foster Care

Citation: DHS-5307

In policy: The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services does not discriminate against any individual or group because of race, religion, age, national origin, color, height, weight, marital status, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political beliefs, or disability.

Other rights of a youth in foster care include the following:

  • To be treated with respect and free from discrimination
  • To be protected from physical, sexual, emotional, or other abuse and harsh or unnecessary punishment
  • To have their records and personal information kept private

Supports for LGBTQIA2S+ Youth in Care

Citation: DHS-5307

Other rights of a youth in foster care include the following:

  • To participate in age-appropriate activities, such as after-school activities, summer activities, or work experiences
  • To have minimal changes in the school they attend
  • To receive medical, dental, vision, and mental health care as needed

Placement Considerations

Citation: DHS-5307

Other rights of a youth in foster care include the following:

  • To live in the most home-like and least restrictive setting available that provides adequate food, clothing, school supplies, and personal hygiene products
  • To be placed with a family member or someone with a similar religion, culture, and/or heritage, if possible

Caregiver Qualifications

This issue is not addressed in the laws and policies reviewed.

Definitions

This issue is not addressed in the laws and policies reviewed.