Too few trans people have been elected in the United States. But today, Stephanie Byers shattered a rainbow ceiling in Kansas and became the FIRST openly trans member of the Kansas state legislature and the FIRST out trans person of color ever elected to a state legislature!
From our news release:
Today LGBTQ Victory Fund endorsed candidate Stephanie Byers won her election, becoming the first out transgender person ever elected to the Kansas state House and the first out trans person of color ever elected to a state legislature in the U.S. She will also become just the third openly LGBTQ person ever elected to the Kansas state legislature – with state Reps. Susan Ruiz and Brandon Woodard being the first in 2018. Byers is one of five non-incumbent openly trans state legislative candidates on the ballot tonight. Currently there are just four out trans state legislators in the entire country.
Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Fund, released the following statement about Byers’ victory:
“Stephanie shattered a lavender ceiling in Kansas and its impact will reverberate well beyond the borders of the state. Her victory will inspire more trans people to run for office because they see it is possible and understand these candidates are transforming how America perceives them. While cynical politicians attempted to weaponize trans issues for political gain this cycle, Stephanie’s victory is a powerful reminder that most voters reject the politics of bigotry and will elect trans people who have a positive vision for their communities.”
Over the years, Kansas has been home to some of the worst pieces of anti-LGBTQ legislation. This legislature attempted to rollback marriage equality and strengthen anti-equality laws. Together with our two amazing incumbents Susan Ruiz and Brandon Woodard, who are on-track to win their reelection campaigns, Stephanie will join a growing number of LGBTQ voices in the Kansas state House and defend LGBTQ people everywhere!
