Born and raised in a tight-knit church community in Eastern Detroit, Michael Cleggs-Arnott yearned for a community where he could feel safe, seen and loved. 

“We didn’t talk about our sexual identity,” he said. “I didn’t have access to people like myself.”

But work brought him to Kalamazoo in 2008, where he joined OutFront Kalamazoo in search of a place of belonging. Now, more than a decade later, he hopes to foster a space that embraces the intersections of race, gender, age, and identity within LGBTQ+ communities as Director of Programs and Outreach. 

OutFront Kalamazoo is a safe and welcoming space where people of all gender identities and sexual orientations can live authentically. It offers connection, visibility, and a place to stand proudly alongside others who choose to live in solidarity. The community is dedicated to advancing social justice to foster equity for LGBTQ+ identifying people. 

“It was the first place I felt like I truly belonged,” said Michael. 

What started as a grassroots organization has grown into a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ life in Kalamazoo. The community offers more than 20 programs, including support groups, youth programming, health resources, cultural events and fun activities, like bike riding clubs and knitting.

Building a Community That Sees Everyone

Michael oversees many of OutFront’s programs, including youth groups, trans adult support spaces, and Faith Alliance, which brings together affirming religious institutions to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He works intentionally with communities that aren’t always seen, like older LGBTQ adults, Indigenous communities, and people living at the intersection of race, gender, and queerness, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs met.

“We haven’t always gotten it right,” said Michael, explaining how OutFront struggled with leadership turnover. That instability, he says, slowed down the community’s ability to connect deeply with the full spectrum of people they serve. Now, Michael says the community is back on track and ready to expand its reach to the places where conversations about LGBTQ+ identities aren’t being had.

“There are LGBTQ+ folks in every community, and it’s our responsibility to reach out and make sure they have access to the same resources and support,” he said. “We can’t limit our relationships to those who already support our community.”

My Vision for OutFront and for Kalamazoo

Michael is deeply committed to creating space for those often overlooked, like people who live at the intersection of LGBTQ+ and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) identities. For him, true community means ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, age, or lived experience, feels represented and heard.

“Just last week, I met with leaders from three Native American tribes,” said Michael.

His vision for OutFront is expansive: a center as big and impactful as the YWCA downtown. A hub that provides not only critical resources like housing and financial support, but also emotional connection and celebration. A space where BIPOC and older LGBTQ+ people feel centered.

Michael encourages community members, especially allies, to support an equitable LGBTQ+ community. “We’re in a moment where being LGBTQ in public is once again met with resistance, fear and even violence,” he said. 

Here’s what Michael says we can do to stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors:

• Learning more. If you don’t understand our community, reach out. Come to an event. Talk to us. We’re here.
• Volunteering. If you’re able, give your time, especially during Pride. The same folks have been volunteering for years. They deserve a moment to enjoy what they’ve helped build.

• Advocating. Attend a protest. Call your legislators. Join us in Lansing for LGBTQ Equality Day. Be the reason someone else feels safe.

“OutFront Kalamazoo gave me a community. It gave me a home.”

OutFront Kalamazoo invites community members to check out its new home at 1020 South Westnedge, to connect, participate and find community.

Upcoming Events at OutFront Kalamazoo

Visit their website for upcoming events: https://www.outfrontkzoo.org/calendar-of-events

Join us in celebrating and building LGBTQIA+ community with these powerful Pride events:

Pride on the Block

📅 Friday, June 27 | 🕕 6–8 PM

📍 313 N. Burdick St.

Celebrate 16 years of Kalamazoo Pride! Gather in the North Burdick neighborhood to honor the legacy, growth, and future of Pride in our community.

Youth Pride

📅 Saturday, June 28 | 🕛 12–6 PM

📍 Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan

Kalamazoo’s first-ever Pride festival curated by and for LGBTQIA+ youth! Entry is free for everyone and all ages are welcome. (Adults only permitted if accompanied by youth.)