LGBTQ+ rights groups are celebrating Vice President Kamala Harris’ historic presidential campaign, highlighting its significance for the queer community. Following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race, Harris’ campaign launch has been met with widespread support from Democrats and human rights advocates, emphasizing her unparalleled record on LGBTQ+ issues. Several organizations have voiced their endorsement for Harris, who could become the nation’s first woman president and the most LGBTQ+ friendly candidate in U.S. history.
The LGBTQ+ Victory Institute expressed excitement about the possibility of Harris becoming the first Black woman presidential nominee for a major party. The organization also emphasized the importance of Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg potentially being considered as her vice president. “Vice President Harris is a fervent supporter of pro-equality policies and LGBTQ+ communities,” said President and CEO Mayor Annise Parker. She noted the historic nature of a Harris/Buttigieg ticket, which could be a monumental moment in the ongoing efforts to make all levels of government more inclusive.
Harris’ campaign is particularly resonating with Gen Z, one of the LGBTQ+ community’s largest demographics. Dylan Bulkeley-Krane, Founder of Drag PAC, highlighted the renewed enthusiasm among young voters following Biden’s decision to step aside. Drag PAC, known for mobilizing Gen Z voters through the involvement of famous drag artists, is optimistic about the impact of this demographic on the upcoming elections. “We are excited to see a resurgence in Gen Z’s excitement about voting. The power of young people to drive change is immense,” Bulkeley-Krane said.
The National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund has also endorsed Harris, with President Kierra Johnson calling the decision “a bold statement about what this election means for the future of LGBTQ+ people in America.” Johnson emphasized the critical nature of this election, with issues such as trans-affirming care, immigration, and bodily autonomy at stake. “Our communities are under attack on many fronts, and we are witnessing a remarkable coalescence of people across the country, inspired to engage in our democratic process,” Johnson continued.
The Human Rights Campaign praised Harris as a “trailblazer and champion for LGBTQ+ equality for decades.” President Kelley Robinson pointed to Harris’ extensive work in San Francisco and California, including her early support for marriage equality and efforts to end the “gay and transgender panic defense.” Robinson contrasted Harris’ commitment to unity and accountability with former President Donald Trump’s divisive rhetoric, asserting that Harris will fight for a country where “justice for all” genuinely means something.