In this crucial election, the stakes are particularly high for LGBT voters. Minnesota, New Hampshire, California and New York have become battlegrounds for marriage equality. Rhode Island and California candidates are seeking to become the fourth and fifth openly gay members of Congress. There are 435 U.S. House of Representatives seats, 37 U.S. Senate seats, and 37 gubernatorial seats hanging in the balance. Also at stake are the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"; Safe Schools legislation to end anti-gay bullying; and repealing the Defense of Marriage Act. This is truly an important election for our entire community.
National Black Justice Coalition Executive Director Sharon Lettman-Hicks stated, “Democracy is not a spectator sport. It is imperative that we recognize that each of us has a stake in this election, each of us stands to build on or lose the gains of the past two years, and each of us must do our part to protect our quality of life. Make sure that everyone in your network understands the importance of this election and what's at stake for Black LGBT people and their families come November. For the future of our communities, we need you to vote on November 2 and take others with you to the polls."
###
The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. NBJC's mission is to end racism and homophobia.