In a profound conversation with The Advocate, Lambda Legal’s chief legal officer, Jenny Pizer, and CEO, Kevin Jennings, discussed the organization’s remarkable 50-year journey as the LGBTQ+ community celebrates LGBTQ+ History Month.
Legacy of Legal Milestones
Since its inception in 1973, Lambda Legal has played a pivotal role in driving tangible change in the societal and legal landscape. The organization has a history of significant achievements, from winning the first HIV discrimination challenge in 1983 to establishing protective measures for LGBTQ+ youth in schools. Their landmark victories in securing marriage equality for same-sex couples underscore their relentless pursuit of equality, dignity, and justice for the LGBTQ+ community.
Pizer emphasized the importance of Lambda Legal’s litigation strategy, which revolves around presenting accurate information, real experts, and a true story. She stated, “The impact litigation that we do is about a mechanism for telling a true story, accurate information, real experts, not junk science.”
Reaffirming Commitment Amidst Contemporary Challenges
In the face of recent attacks targeting transgender and nonbinary individuals, LGBTQ+ youth, and other marginalized groups within the community, Lambda Legal’s leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to confronting these challenges head-on. Pizer made it clear that Lambda Legal is prepared to defend these rights fiercely, saying, “Make no mistake, Lambda Legal is ready and prepared and has no illusions about the fights ahead.”
Extending the Legal Frontier for LGBTQ+ Rights
Lambda Legal’s efforts extend across 27 states, with a particular focus on challenging policies that undermine transgender rights. They have tackled issues such as anti-transgender healthcare rules and discriminatory school sports policies. Lambda Legal’s impact goes beyond the courtroom, encompassing public education, community engagement, and collaborations with partner organizations.
The Road Ahead for Lambda Legal
Looking towards the future, Pizer expressed hope for the transformation that comes after hard-fought battles. Jennings, while anticipating the post-election landscape with some trepidation, remained optimistic about long-term societal shifts. He affirmed, “long-term, they’re going to lose this war because as Americans come to know trans people as their neighbors, their family members, their coworkers, their classmates, fewer and fewer will buy into these lies.”
Unveiling the Human Cost
The conversation also touched on the human toll that political animosity inflicts. Pizer criticized the hypocrisy of causing harm under the guise of protecting children, calling it “profound hypocrisy, perverse behavior.” Jennings acknowledged the real cost, stating, “People are hurting and people are getting hurt.”
As Lambda Legal enters its next 50 years, the spirit of advocacy remains unwavering. Pizer and Jennings’ dialogue reflects a firm resolve to continue the fight for justice despite the adversities ahead. Jennings left a poignant remark on the legacy and future of Lambda Legal, emphasizing that their opponents will ultimately backfire, helping America understand that trans and non-binary people are part of the American story.