By Tony Hoang
Yesterday, Laphonza Butler was sworn in as California’s junior Senator, taking over the seat left by the loss of stalwart legislative giant Dianne Feinstein.
With her ascension to the Senate, Laphonza is accomplishing many firsts. She is the first out LGBTQ+ Senator to represent California, the first out Black LGBTQ+ woman to serve in Congress, and the first out LGBTQ+ person of color to serve in the Senate.
Laphonza brings a strong history of advocacy to the Senate. Most recently, she served as President of Emily’s List, helping to elect strong, pro-choice female candidates at all levels of government. Previously, she served as President of Local 2015 of the Service Employees’ Industry Union (SEIU), successfully spearheading the fight for a $15 minimum wage in California. Her experience as an organizer and political leader will benefit all Californians.
We were proud to honor her in 2016 at our Los Angeles Equality Awards with our Equality Leadership Award, recognizing her work to make sure that all people, including LGBTQ+ people, have the right to earn a livable wage and provide for themselves and their families.
We look forward to partnering with Senator Butler in our efforts to continue our mission to create a just and fully equal society for all LGBTQ+ people. Until the work is done,
