Historic wins for Black LGBTQ+ candidates in elections
Almost two dozen LGBTQIA+ Black candidates were elected in the November 7 elections.
Following Tuesday’s elections, which saw nearly two dozen Black LGBTQ+/Same-gender loving candidates elected and many wins in the fight against anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination and censorship, Dr. David J. Johns, executive director of the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC), a leading Black LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, issued the following statement:
“We are elated to witness the groundbreaking successes of nearly two dozen Black LGBTQ+/SGL candidates in the recent elections, underscoring the vital importance of diverse voices in shaping our political landscape, defending democracy, and protecting marginalized communities. This moment reinforces our commitment to fostering an inclusive political environment reflecting the American experience’s richness and diversity.
“The election of four Black LGBTQ+/SGL candidates in Virginia is a particularly significant and historic achievement in the state, where a progressive takeover of the legislature will limit Governor Youngkin’s ability to cause further harm to our community through anti-trans and anti-abortion bills, as well as censorship of African American and LGBTQ+ topics in education.
“In Mississippi, the election of Fabian Nelson as the state’s first openly LGBTQ+ legislator is a historic milestone. Mr. Nelson’s victory as a Black, openly same-gender loving man not only marks a personal triumph but also signals a positive shift toward a more inclusive political landscape in a state actively grappling with equality and justice for all.
“Similarly, school board victories in suburban Philadelphia and Northern Virginia, where manufactured gender issues have been a rallying cry for hate fueled bigots, affirm the important commitment each of us should make to providing inclusive, safe, and supportive educational environments that recognize and respect all students. And in Iowa, voters narrowly rejected a measure that would have curtailed the City Council’s control over the public library, safeguarding the freedom to access diverse voices, including LGBTQ+ literature.
Dr. Johns continued: “These victories emphasize our collective progress towards a more equitable and representative democracy. Representation matters, and the election of Black LGBTQ+/SGL candidates is a powerful affirmation that our voices, stories, and experiences are integral to the success and strength of our democracy. We commend the resilience and courage of the candidates who stepped forward to make history, and we look forward to the positive impact they will undoubtedly have in their respective roles. We look forward to welcoming them to our Good Trouble Network of, and powered by, Black LGBTQ+/SGL Elected Officials.”
