California‘s LGBTQ+ Legislative Caucus Reaches Historic Milestone
SACRAMENTO — The California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus has reached a new milestone. On the day the state’s new legislature is sworn in, allocate representation is at 12%, making California a leader in LGBTQ+ political representation nationwide.
Five new members join the caucus, increasing the total number of LGBTQ+ representatives to 14. The new members are Christopher Cabaldon (Senate District 3), Sasha Renée Pérez (Senate District 25), Mark Gonzalez (Assembly District 54), Sade Elhawary (Assembly District 57), and José Solache (Assembly District 62). This expansion arrives at a critical time for the LGBTQ+ community as concerns intensify over potential attacks on civil rights, healthcare, and education from the incoming federal administration.
Protecting Hard-Won Gains
The Executive Director of Equality California, Tony Hoang, expressed his pride regarding this milestone: “Equality California is proud to celebrate this milestone of 12% out-LGBTQ+ representation in our state legislature. These new members continue to ensure that our caucus reflects the
full diversity and strength of our community. LGBTQ+ people belong in every room and deserve a seat at every table where decisions impacting our community and our lives are being made. Whatever attacks Donald Trump and his fellow extremists may initiate against our community — and our trans kids and LGBTQ+ students in particular — California will continue to lead the nation’s fight for LGBTQ+ equality.”
A Safe Haven for the LGBTQ+ Community
Chris Ward, incoming Chair of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, reflected on the caucus’ history: “Nearly 25 years ago, our caucus was founded by four lesbians — today, our state legislature achieves a historic 12% of out-LGBTQ+ representation. Our community knows all too well that having a seat at the table is vitally important in order to ensure our community’s voices are heard. As attacks on rights ramp up, especially targeting LGBTQ+ youth and our TGI siblings, our growing LGBTQ Caucus remains steadfast in our commitment to unity and to strengthen California’s status as a safe haven for LGBTQ+ community members and their loved ones.
State Senator Caro
line Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) also expressed optimism for the future:
“ I look forward to my LGBTQ+ family growing in the legislature because representation is more important than ever if we want a fighting chance in the battles ahead. While hostility and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community threaten to take root in our federal government, it is also attempting to overtake California’s education and foster care systems. My body of work, before and since becoming a legislator, has often focused on protecting youth, especially when it comes to their safety and well-being in school. Now, even more of our voices will be heard in policy-making and budget decisions. And I plan to keep that collective energy focused on meeting the needs and protecting the futures of LGBTQ+ youth across our state!”
A Powerful Voice for LGBTQ+ Rights
I
ncreasing LGBTQ+ representation in the California legislature reflects the community’s growing political influence. As these advocates work closely with organizations like Equality California, they will continue to champion legislation protecting hard-won gains and pushing for further progress on issues facing the
LGBTQ+ community.
Equality California is the nation’s largest statewide LGBTQ civil rights organization. We bring the voices of LGBTQ people and allies to institutions of power in California and across the United States, striving to create a world that is healthy, just, and fully equal for all LGBTQ people. We advance civil rights and social justice by inspiring, advocating and mobilizing through an inclusive movement that works tirelessly on behalf of those we serve. www.eqca.org
What are the key legislative priorities for the California LGBTQ+ Caucus?
## California’s LGBTQ+ Caucus Reaches Historic Milestone: An Interview with Equality California
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re discussing a historic milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in California. Joining us is Tony Hoang, Executive Director of Equality California. Tony, congratulations on this achievement. Can you tell us more about what this 12% representation means for the state?
**Tony Hoang:** Thank you for having me. We at Equality California are incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone. Reaching 12% out-LGBTQ+ representation in our state legislature is a testament to the growing political power of our community. It means that our voices will be heard louder and clearer in the corridors of power.
**Host:** It couldn’t come at a more crucial time, given the concerns about potential attacks on LGBTQ+ rights at the federal level.
**Tony Hoang:** [ [1](https://www.eqca.org/lgbtq-caucus-growth/) ]Absolutely. We are facing a challenging political climate, and it’s more important than ever for our community to be represented at all levels of government. Our new legislators bring diverse perspectives and experiences, and they will be vital in fighting for the rights and well-being of all Californians, especially our most vulnerable citizens.
**Host:** Can you tell us a bit about some of the key priorities for the LGBTQ+ Caucus in the coming legislative session?
**Tony Hoang:** The Caucus will be focused on protecting hard-won gains against potential rollbacks of civil rights, healthcare access, and educational equity for LGBTQ+ individuals. We will also be working to advance legislation that promotes equality and justice for all Californians, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
**Host:** This 12% representation is truly a remarkable achievement. What message does it send to LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly young people, across the country?
**Tony Hoang:** It sends a powerful message of hope and possibility. It shows that anything is possible when we organize, mobilize, and fight for our rights. It demonstrates that California is a place where diversity is celebrated and where everyone has a seat at the table.
**Host:** Tony Hoang, Executive Director of Equality California, thank you for joining us today and shedding light on this historic moment.
**Tony Hoang:** Thank you for having me.
