Equality California today announced that Rep. Mark Takano has been named the Leadership Award honoree for the Palm Springs Equality Awards scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 12.
Takano is the first openly gay person of color elected to the House of Representatives, representing California’s 41st District, and since his election, has been a strong voice in Washington for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. Takano urged President Obama to file amicus briefs in the Proposition 8 and Defense of Marriage Act cases, has encouraged a non-discrimination policy in federal contractors and built support for the Employee Non-Discrimination Act.
“Rep. Takano is exactly the kind of leader we want and need in Washington,” said John O’Connor, EQCA executive director. ”He has already become a national LGBT leader and he’s only midway through his first term! EQCA is thrilled to honor Rep. Takano for his leadership in the Inland Empire, California and the nation.”
“I’m overjoyed and honored to receive the 2013 EQCA Palm Springs Equality Awards Leadership Award,” said Congressman Takano. ”Across the country, we’ve seen profound progress surrounding important LGBT issues in ballot boxes, legislatures, and courtrooms. While there’s been a lot to celebrate in the LGBT movement recently, there’s more we must do to gain full equality. For me, this award will symbolize the great progress we’ve made, and serve as a reminder for the progress we must continue to fight for.”
