Opinion: LGBTQ+ Victory Institute proves representation is resistance

As chair of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, I have both the privilege and responsibility of leading a coalition of lawmakers committed to advancing equality, defending civil rights and ensuring government reflects the diversity of its people. For me, this work is deeply personal.

I represent a seat in the California State Assembly with a proud legacy of LGBTQ+ leadership. Christine Kehoe, one of the caucus’s founders, once held this seat. She was later followed by Toni Atkins, who went on to become the first LGBTQ+ woman to serve as Assembly speaker and Senate president pro tempore. Toni was succeeded by Todd Gloria, now mayor of San Diego. I stand on their shoulders and carry forward a legacy of bold, principled service.

My own journey began in local government, where I learned firsthand that representation matters  — not in theory, but in policy, community connection and lived outcomes. When LGBTQ+ people serve, our voices are heard, our needs are recognized, and our experiences shape laws that impact millions.

California leads the nation in LGBTQ+ political representation. With over 200 openly LGBTQ+ elected officials statewide and 12% of our Legislature identifying as LGBTQ+, ours was the first official caucus of its kind in the country. That progress is worth celebrating — but it is not enough.

Far too many school boards are being overtaken by far-right extremists determined to distort our public education system and target LGBTQ+ youth. Entire regions of our state — particularly rural communities — still lack LGBTQ+ leadership. Representation at the local level is critical not only to drive progress, but to defend hard-won rights.

Because the truth is, our community is under attack.

Since Jan. 20 of this year, we’ve seen a flood of punitive federal directives aimed squarely at LGBTQ+ Americans, especially our transgender, gender nonconforming and intersex siblings. These policies are unconstitutional, cruel and designed to erase us from public life.

Let me be clear: when those in power weaponize policy against our lives and liberties, we will fight back. We will not stand by while bigotry is rebranded as governance. And we will not allow history to repeat itself. The same tactics once used to marginalize gay and lesbian Americans are being deployed today against transgender, gender nonconforming and intersex people. Those efforts failed before — and they will fail again. But only if we remain visible, vocal and engaged.

That is why representation is not symbolic. It is strategic. It is how we fight back.

This year, the Legislative LGBTQ Caucus is advancing an agenda centered on two urgent priorities, protecting against anti-LGBTQ+ attacks, and advancing progress while addressing everyday challenges.

That means ensuring schools remain safe and affirming. Guaranteeing health care systems meet the needs of transgender, gender nonconforming and intersex individuals. Protecting LGBTQ+ youth and families from criminalization or marginalization. Supporting seniors so they can age with dignity. And making sure no one is left behind — especially communities most targeted by hate.

But even the strongest legislative action in Sacramento is not enough. Change begins at the local level — in school board meetings, city councils and county supervisor chambers. We must build a diverse bench of LGBTQ+ leaders at every level of government to ensure our voices are present at decision-making tables.

That’s where you come in.

Democracy only works when everyone shows up. Supporting organizations like the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute helps sustain a pipeline of diverse, qualified LGBTQ+ leaders who will continue driving progress. More than that, it ensures government reflects the full spectrum of who we are.

Because LGBTQ+ equality is not just our community’s issue — it is a matter of justice, of shared values, of the state and country we want to live in.

We are stronger when we stand together. And I’m calling on all Californians — LGBTQ+ and allies alike — to help build a future where every person is seen, respected and free to live authentically.

The work continues. But with you beside us, I know we will rise to meet this moment.

Ward, a Democrat, is a member of the California Assembly representing the 78th District and is chair of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus. He lives in University Heights.