In the late 1990s, a group of citizens formed Community Members Against Discrimination (CMAD) to advocate for the rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender community members in DeKalb County. They approached the Human Relations Commission (HRC) in the City of DeKalb to discuss the need to add sexual orientation and gender identity to the anti-discrimination policy in the municipal code.

On Sunday, October 11 at 2pm, former CMAD members Mary Shelden and Margie Cook, along with former HRC Commission Chair Norden Gilbert will discuss the history and process of legal advocacy for sexual orientation and gender identity rights, particularly in connection with the Human Relations Ordinance.

This presentation is offered in conjunction with the Legacy Wall and local LGBTQ+ history exhibit on display at the DeKalb Public Library November from 7-20, 2026. It is made possible in partnership with the DeKalb County History Center.