Attending the 2024 Democratic National Convention August 19-21 in Chicago marked a pivotal moment for Family Equality, a national nonprofit advocating for LGBTQ+ families across the country. Dedicated to stopping anti-LGBTQ+ bills and championing pro-equality legislation, their participation in the four-day event wasn’t just an honor — it was a necessity.
Representing the organization were Alexis Kantor, Interim President & CEO; Kim Simes, Executive Vice President of External Operations; Luce Remy, Vice President of Public Policy; and Tonya Agnew, Vice President of Communications & Marketing. The team attended daily caucus meetings and the main program each evening in Chicago and heard from countless leaders, legislators, and movement partners.
During the LGBTQ+ Caucus meeting on Monday, August 19, LGBTQ+ Caucus Chair, Earl Fowlkes, mentioned the record-breaking number of LGBTQ+ delegates this year — more than 800! The speaker lineup at each of the LGBTQ+ Caucus meetings on Monday and Wednesday of the convention was impressive and moving. Attendees heard from:
- Chasten Buttigieg, educator, writer, gay parent, and husband of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg
- Kierra Johnson, President, National LGBTQ Task Force
- Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, Executive Director, Advocates for Trans Equality
- Annise Parker, President, LGBTQ Victory Institute
- Delaware state Senator Sarah McBride, (first openly transgender state senator and currently a candidate for U.S. Congress)
- Charlotte Clymer, writer LGBTQ+ activist
- Wilson Cruz, actor, LGBTQ+ activist, and GLSEN board member
- Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, Stonewall veteran and transgender rights activist
- Drag queen royalty, Miss PepperMint and BenDeLaCreme
— just to name a few!
The entire convention included countless mentions of LGBTQ+ stories and the need for equality from both those who identify as LGBTQ+ and allies. The Main Program speakers during each of the evenings included LGBTQ+ legislators, movement partners, and celebrities. Kelley Robinson, HRC’s President, gave a rousing and inspiring speech from the main stage at the United Center.
In a political climate where the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and families are increasingly under threat, Family Equality’s presence at such a significant political event was crucial. They ensured that the voices of LGBTQ+ families were heard at the highest levels.
“For us, being there meant being part of the conversation and advocating directly for the issues that matter most to LGBTQ+ families,” said Tonya Agnew, Vice President of Communications & Marketing. She pointed out that recent data from Family Equality’s movement partner, HRC, shows that a record 75 million voters prioritize LGBTQ+ inclusive policies when making decisions at the ballot box. “We attended the Democratic National Convention on behalf of those 75 million voters.”
Their time at the Democratic National Convention underscored the power of collective action and the importance of being present in spaces where decisions are made. By standing together and advocating fiercely, they aim to create a world where all families, regardless of composition, are treated with dignity and respect.
Family Equality remains committed to ensuring that the voices of LGBTQ+ families are heard loud and clear, keeping their issues at the forefront of the national conversation. The Democratic National Convention was just one step in this journey, but a significant one that has only strengthened their resolve.
“As the Interim President + CEO of Family Equality, I am honored to advocate for pro-equality policies at the DNC, working to ensure that all families, regardless of their structure, are treated with dignity, respect, and equality,” said Alexis Kantor, Interim President & CEO. “It’s a profound privilege to fight for a safer world for queer families.”