Lesbians In DC

—Who you should know in DC politics

When we sit around and think about DC, ground 0 for American politics, there are few Lesbian and queer people at the forefront of our mind. This isn’t to say they dont exist, their platforms and reach are just smaller, but they deserve to have a bright light shown on them! Heres a handful worth knowing,

Tammy Baldwin

While she primarily represents Wisconsin, Tammy Baldwin is a significant political figure in D.C. as the first openly lesbian U.S. Senator. She has been a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare reform, and progressive policies on Capitol Hill.

Karine Jean-Pierre

As the former White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre was the first openly lesbian and Black woman to hold this high-profile role. She was a key voice for the Biden administration and a visible advocate for diversity and LGBTQ+ representation in government. Recently she announced that she had left the Democratic Party and is now an independent with a book on the way giving an inside look at our broken political system. A sentiment i think many of us feel.

Gina Ortiz Jones

Gina Ortiz Jones, a former Air Force intelligence officer, served as Under Secretary of the Air Force in the Biden administration. She has been a strong advocate for veterans, national security, and LGBTQ+ rights within the military.

Dana Nessel

Although she serves as Michigan’s Attorney General, Dana Nessel is an influential and strong advocate for LGBTQ+ legal protections, who frequently works in Washington, D.C., on issues related to civil rights, legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, and progressive legal reforms.

Annise Parker

As the former Mayor of Houston and now the President & CEO of the LGBTQ Victory Fund, Annise Parker plays a major role in shaping LGBTQ+ political representation across the U.S., including in Washington, D.C. Her organization supports and endorses LGBTQ+ candidates nationwide.

Kierra Johnson

Kierra Johnson is the Executive Director of the National LGBTQ Task Force, a leading civil rights organization that advocates for LGBTQ+ rights nationwide. She is a powerful voice for reproductive justice, racial equity, and LGBTQ+ inclusion, pushing for policy changes and grassroots activism.

Urvashi Vaid (1958–2022)

Special shout out to Urvashi Vaid who is a legendary LGBTQ+ activist and former Executive Director of the National LGBTQ Task Force. She worked extensively in D.C. for decades, shaping LGBTQ+ policy and fighting for intersectional justice, including racial and gender equality. Her legacy continues to inspire advocacy work today.

Rea Carey

As the former Executive Director of the National LGBTQ Task Force, Rea Carey played a crucial role in advancing LGBTQ+ protections in housing, employment, and healthcare. She has been a powerful advocate for queer rights in Washington for over 30 years.

Sarah McBride

Currently a Delaware State Senator, Sarah McBride previously worked in Washington, D.C., as National Press Secretary for the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). She is the first openly transgender state senator in the U.S. and a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights at the national level.

Robin Maril

Robin Maril is a legal and policy expert who previously served as Associate Legal Director at the Human Rights Campaign. She is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ legal protections and frequently contributes to media discussions on civil rights.

Charlotte Clymer

Charlotte Clymer is a well-known writer, activist, and former press secretary for the Human Rights Campaign. She is a powerful media figure in Washington, using her platform to speak on LGBTQ+ rights, feminism, and social justice.

Cathy Renna

Cathy Renna is a communications strategist and LGBTQ+ media expert who has worked for GLAAD and numerous advocacy organizations. She has been instrumental in shaping how LGBTQ+ issues are represented in the media, particularly in political contexts.

Representation matters, and the contributions of these women is critical to our existence and ability to not just take up space, but to excel into the highest levels of politics. Their commitment is the type of real world work that results in lasting change. Thanks ladies!