The South Eastern Michigan Gay and Lesbian Association (SEMGLA) was formerly known as the Association of Suburban People (ASP). Primarily a gay male social organization, the group originally held meetings in Berkley, Michigan. Organization activities included fundraising, a political action committee, and collaboration with the Whitman-Brooks foundation to produce a conference called, “Establishing a Positive Gay & Lesbian Identity.” In an effort to recruit more women to the organization, ASP officers encouraged Nita Firestone to join them in a leadership position. By the mid-1980s, with increased visibility in the community, ASP evolved into Michigan’s largest LBGT educational organization and in 1985 changed its name to more accurately reflect its mission.

Records of the association show the organization's evolution as a group. Activities are documented and material includes membership directories, conference and promotional materials, meeting minutes, publications, and photographs.