Course Description
Presenter: Jazz McKinney, MA, LLP, Executive Director, Grand Rapids Pride Center
Understanding the diverse experiences of residents is essential to providing equitable and inclusive housing. In this course, Jazz McKinney, MA, LLP, explores the history and significance of Pride Month while examining housing-related challenges experienced by members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
You'll gain insight into the historical connections between civil rights and housing access, learn about common forms of housing discrimination, and review the evolving landscape of tenant protections. The course also provides practical strategies for creating inclusive environments that foster dignity, respect, and belonging for residents, prospective tenants, and colleagues.
Designed for property management professionals, leasing staff, and real estate practitioners, this course offers actionable guidance for supporting fair and equitable housing experiences while strengthening inclusive practices within residential communities.
Learning objectives:
- Describe the history and ongoing significance of Pride Month and its connection to housing and civil rights
- Identify common forms of housing discrimination experienced by 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and understand the legal landscape surrounding tenant protections
- Apply practical strategies to create more inclusive and affirming environments for 2SLGBTQ+ residents and colleagues
- Support equitable housing experiences through inclusive communication and management practices
Jazz McKinney (they/them) is a Black, Indigenous Two-Spirit individual, award-winning facilitator, public speaker, and advocate for social justice. For more than two decades, they have dedicated their professional and personal efforts to supporting BIPOC communities and the 2SLGBTQ+ community through education, advocacy, and community engagement.
Known for fostering meaningful conversations that inspire understanding and change, Jazz has led numerous trainings, participated in educational documentaries, delivered keynote presentations, and facilitated discussions throughout Michigan and beyond. Their work centers on building awareness, challenging inequitable systems, and advancing racial, disability, and social justice.
Jazz currently serves as Executive Director of the Grand Rapids Pride Center and Co-Owner and Principal Consultant of Paradigm Shifts Consulting, where they continue their mission of creating safer, more equitable communities for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and their allies.
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