Israel would also be the first Latina Mayor of a top-20 U.S. city
Washington, DC – Tonight LGBTQ Victory Fund candidate Celia Israel advanced to the run-off in the Austin, Texas mayoral race, putting her on track to become the first out LGBTQ person elected mayor of the city and the first Latina mayor of a top U.S. city. The run-off is scheduled for December 13.
Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Fund, issued the following statement:
“Under Greg Abbott, Texas has become ground zero for hateful anti-LGBTQ legislation, making Celia advancing to the run-off a symbolic moment for the entire state. While state legislators in Austin attempt to exploit fears for their own perceived political gain, Celia will continue to campaign on a vision that prioritizes inclusivity, equality and respect. She is well-positioned to win in the run-off and we know she will be an exceptional leader for Austin.”
There are currently just thirteen out LGBTQ women mayors in the U.S., only one of whom is Latina, according to LGBTQ Victory Institute.
Victory Fund is tracking Election Night results at victoryfund.org/2022.
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LGBTQ Victory Fund
LGBTQ Victory Fund works to achieve and sustain equality by increasing the number of openly LGBTQ elected officials at all levels of government while ensuring they reflect the diversity of those they serve. Since 1991, Victory Fund has helped thousands of openly LGBTQ candidates win local, state and federal elections.