These LGBTQ+ Candidates Won Office In PA Last Year!

Last year, Pennsylvania had many openly LGBTQ+ candidates who won office.

This is a huge deal, not only for diversity and progress in the office, but also for positive representation and inclusivity. These elected officials help young people to see that being LBTQ+ is not a barrier to working towards your goals in life, positively affirms that being LBTQ+ is normal, and helps to keep young people engaged in the world around them.

The election of transgender and gay leaders serves as an inspiration for future generations. It sends a powerful message that anyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, can aspire to and achieve leadership roles. This encouragement can have a cascading effect, motivating young individuals to pursue their aspirations without fear of discrimination or exclusion.

In politics, empathy is a powerful force for positive change. Transgender and gay leaders, by virtue of their lived experiences, often possess a heightened sense of empathy for the struggles faced by marginalized communities. This empathy can lead to more compassionate and informed decision-making, fostering a political environment that is considerate of the diverse perspectives and needs of all citizens.

Current representation in office includes some of the following individuals:

Tyler Titus, a white transgender non-binary queer person, Erie City Council. Titus said they ran for City Council “to build an Erie where our children want to stay and new people want to move.”

Amelia McMillan, a white gender nonconforming queer person, Central York School Board. Amelia is committed to open discussions with the community, from all sides, and will work to facilitate policies that directly serve people.

Fred Quinn III, a black cisgender LGBTQ person, Swissvale Borough. He was sworn-in as the first black man and youngest member of Swissvale Borough Council.

Daniel Miller, a white cisgender gay man, Harrisburg City Treasurer. Daniel is the current Harrisburg Treasurer. He lives in the city with husband, where he raised his family. He is also Harrisburg's first openly gay city councilor.

Damien Warsavage, a multiracial cisgender gay man, Upper Darby School Board. Damien is a LGBTQ+ community advocate, vocal musician, & Upper Darby School Director.

And many more.

These officials help to remind us all that every little vote in election matters, and that expanding inclusivity is what democracy should be about. With more and more LGBTQ+ candidates being elected and appointed into office, we see:

• Voice and visibility (a platform for the community to voice itself, including concerns, challenges, and aspirations)

• Policy influence (fighting for equitable and just legislation for all) 

• Inspiration and empowerment (seeing oneself represented helps to feel included and normal, and that being LGBTQ+ is not a barrier)

• Cultural shift (advocating for acceptance and normalization of gender identities and sexual orientations) 

Elevating transgender and gay leaders to political office challenges prevailing stereotypes and prejudices. By holding influential roles, these individuals become trailblazers, shattering preconceived notions and demonstrating that leadership is not confined to any particular gender identity or sexual orientation. This, in turn, contributes to dismantling systemic biases that have historically limited opportunities for diverse communities. Having firsthand experience with the challenges and discrimination faced by these communities, these leaders are better equipped to advocate for and implement policies that address the specific needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. This ensures that legislation is not only fair but also considerate of the diverse realities within society.

In conclusion, the importance of electing transgender and gay leadership in politics cannot be overstated. By embracing diversity at the highest levels of governance, we pave the way for a more inclusive, understanding, and empathetic society. It is not just a matter of representation; it is a catalyst for positive change that ripples through legislation, societal attitudes, and the aspirations of generations to come. As we continue to strive for a more equitable future, diversity in leadership must be at the forefront of our political agenda.

Being gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual+ is normal and healthy.
Arrive Therapy can provide LGBTQ affirming therapy.
Please visit our LGBTQIA+ Counseling page to find out more.