Former Pennsylvania lawmaker Brian Sims, a trailblazing figure in the state’s LGBTQ history, has shared heartwarming news with the world. Sims, who made history in 2013 by becoming the first openly gay elected official in Pennsylvania, recently took to Instagram to announce his engagement to his boyfriend, Alex Drakos.
In a touching post, Sims revealed the romantic moment when he proposed to Drakos on the beach. He wrote, “HE SAID YES! Tonight on the beach, I asked Alex if he’d be my husband, and he said yes! Our friends have been in on it awhile now, and a few weeks ago, I asked his parents before I flew out to Hong Kong if I had their permission.” Sims expressed his gratitude that both sets of parents were excited and supportive, echoing the joy he feels for having Drakos in his life.
This engagement marks a significant milestone for Brian Sims, who has been a prominent advocate for LGBTQ rights throughout his career. Sims ran for the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania in 2022, though he ultimately lost to Austin Davis. Despite the political challenges he has faced, Sims’s engagement celebration reminds us of the progress made in LGBTQ representation and acceptance within Pennsylvania and beyond.
As Sims and Drakos embark on this new chapter together, their love story stands as a testament to the resilience and growth of LGBTQ individuals and relationships, not only in Pennsylvania but also across the world.