WASHINGTON, D.C. – LGBTQ elected officials joined Equality Marches and Pride parades across the nation this weekend to protest the anti-LGBTQ forces emboldened by the election of Donald Trump. Since January, LGBTQ elected leaders have introduced and proposed hundreds of bills aimed at mitigating the effects of anti-equality legislation and policies passed by state legislatures and the administration. Victory Institute partnered with LGBTQ elected officials throughout the weekend to encourage people to run for office and make change.
“LGBTQ elected officials are in the streets leading the resistance,” said Aisha C. Moodie-Mills, President & CEO of Victory Institute. “While they march for LGBTQ equality, they also march for a larger progressive agenda that includes welcoming immigration policies, criminal justice reform, gun safety and fighting climate change. LGBTQ elected leaders are the antidote to regressive policies and a hostile political climate – and we need more of them.”
California State Senator Toni Atkins – who introduced and pushed through the Senate a landmark affordable housing bill – spoke at the San Diego march. “Serving as one of the honorary co-chairs of the Equality March is an incredible honor, and I serve in that capacity proudly as a representative from California, a state that stands unified with the LGBTQ community,” said Atkins. “I am inspired by those who won’t stop fighting until everyone enjoys equal rights, justice and a chance to live free from discrimination. I won’t stop, either.”
Nevada Assemblyman Nelson Araujo – who introduced and pushed through a law to protect LGBTQ youth in foster care – attended the Equality March in Las Vegas. “Now more than ever, it is important for everyone to rise and defend the core values that make our beloved nation so great,” said Araujo. “We must continue to fight for full equality – today and every day – until justice prevails.”
