"Equality Ohio was founded in 2005 by a group of 65 dedicated LGBT activists and allies from all corners of Ohio after voters passed a constitutional amendment prohibiting same sex marriage and civil unions. In its first five years, Equality Ohio worked tirelessly to change the hearts and minds of Ohioans about the LGBT community and our civil rights. In 2009, the Ohio House of Representatives took its first floor vote on any legislation protecting the LGBT community in Ohio, passing the Equal Housing and Employment Act with bi-partisan support. That legislation did not pass the Ohio Senate, and there is much important work to be done to achieve full equality and inclusion in Ohio."