Advocacy Groups Praise the Harris-Walz Ticket for Its Commitment to Equality, Inclusivity
In a move that highlights a commitment to inclusivity, Vice President Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. This decision has garnered praise from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, who view it as a significant step toward ensuring equality and safety for all Americans, especially the LGBTQ+ community.
Sarah Kate Ellis, President and CEO of GLAAD, emphasized the importance of the Harris-Walz ticket in the upcoming election, stating, “Vice President Harris’ choice of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz underscores a longstanding commitment to the equality, prosperity, and safety of all Americans, including and especially for LGBTQ people. Gov. Walz has a proven record of including and protecting LGBTQ people and the fundamental freedoms all Americans treasure.”
Ellis urged voters to consider Harris and Walz’s records, noting the critical need for voices that advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals to live free from discrimination. “In this consequential election, we need all voices to speak up for the rights of LGBTQ people to be welcome as we are, live free from discrimination and harm, and pursue our own success and happiness,” she said.
Kate Rohn, Executive Director of OutFront Minnesota, also expressed her support for Walz’s selection. “Governor Walz has long been a supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and has demonstrated his allyship to our communities from his time in the classroom to his work in elected office,” Rohn said. She highlighted Walz’s efforts in Minnesota, including laws ending conversion therapy, abolishing the LGBTQ+ panic defense, and establishing Minnesota as a trans refuge state. Rohn expressed enthusiasm for how Walz’s inclusive message could elevate LGBTQ+ priorities on a national level.
Kelley Robinson, President of the Human Rights Campaign, noted the contrast between the Harris-Walz ticket and their opponents. “Kamala Harris has electrified the nation and breathed new hope into the race,” Robinson stated. “Her pick of Governor Walz sends a message that a Harris-Walz Administration will be committed to advancing equality and justice for all.”
Robinson also emphasized the stark choice facing voters, contrasting the Harris-Walz ticket’s vision with that of their opponents. “A Trump-Vance Administration would demonize LGBTQ+ people, terrorize our families, send our rights and freedoms back to The Land Before Time, and install Project 2025. Or a Harris-Walz Administration that will fight for our freedoms, defend our families, and make America a place where people don’t just get by — but can get ahead.”
