As the Democratic National Convention (DNC) approaches in Chicago, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is preparing to place LGBTQ+ rights at the heart of the event. Starting with “Queering Sunday,” a celebration in Chicago’s North Halsted District, HRC will showcase the power and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. This vibrant kickoff is just the beginning of a week filled with panels, discussions, and gatherings designed to mobilize the community ahead of the upcoming elections.
The excitement surrounding the DNC has been palpable since Vice President Kamala Harris announced her candidacy, with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Brandon Wolf, HRC’s national press secretary, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm for the event, noting the renewed energy within the Democratic Party. He emphasized that HRC’s programming will serve as a vital platform for LGBTQ+ voices, offering a counterpoint to the often hostile rhetoric from the Republican Party.
Throughout the convention, HRC will host various events, including a creator studio at McCormick Place, where attendees can engage with the campaign, share their stories, and pick up exclusive Harris-Walz merchandise. The studio aims to foster connections within the community and strengthen the campaign’s outreach.
Prominent LGBTQ+ figures such as Wilson Cruz, Sophia Bush, and Sarah McBride will headline panels on effective digital engagement and messaging in today’s charged political environment. These discussions will delve into how best to connect with and activate the LGBTQ+ community in the lead-up to the November elections.
As the convention unfolds, high-profile speakers, including former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, will take the stage to rally support for the Democratic ticket. The event will culminate in Harris’s acceptance speech, further solidifying her longstanding commitment to LGBTQ+ rights—a commitment she has demonstrated throughout her career, from officiating same-sex marriages to challenging discriminatory legislation.
HRC’s efforts at the DNC are not just about celebration but about strategic mobilization. The organization plans to close out the week with nationwide house parties organized by its 50-plus steering committees. These gatherings aim to translate the energy generated at the convention into tangible action at the polls, ensuring that the voices of LGBTQ+ people are heard loud and clear in the upcoming election.
