First transgender person ever to address a national political convention

To accompany the most LGBTQ friendly platform in Democratic Party history, the convention on Thursday will see another first. The Human Right Campaign’s (HRC) National Press Secretary, Sarah McBride, will speak, marking the first time in history an openly transgender person will speak at a major party convention, HRC announced.

The organization’s President, Chad Griffin, will also address the DNC that evening.

“Hillary Clinton won’t be the only woman to make history this Thursday. When Sarah McBride takes the stage, she will become the first transgender person to speak at a national Democratic or Republican convention,” said HRC President Chad Griffin. “Sarah’s inclusion in Thursday’s program is a significant milestone for our community, and it sends a strong message that transgender people and their voices matter.

“I'm also honored to address a national convention where LGBTQ advocates will play such an integral and historic role. Next week’s Democratic National Convention will underscore the stark contrast between Hillary Clinton and Tim Kaine’s vision for a more equal America and Donald Trump and Mike Pence’s agenda of hate and division.”

In addition to her HRC duties, McBride is on the steering committee of Trans United for Hillary, a volunteer effort dedicated to educating and mobilizing transgender people and their allies in support of Hillary Clinton. McBride was invited to speak on the main stage of the convention by the Congressional LGBT Caucus and her speech will follow remarks by Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, (D-NY).

“I’m honored for this opportunity to share my story and to be the first transgender person to speak at a major party convention,” said McBride. “People must understand that even as we face daily harassment, tragic violence, and an onslaught of anti-LGBTQ political attacks across the country, we are real people merely seeking to be treated with the dignity and respect every person deserves. I'm so proud to stand with the LGBT Caucus and speak out in support of Hillary Clinton, because we know she stands with us.”

HRC’s statement also praised the number of LGBT delegates at the convention, and particularly the number of transgender delegates: “A record number of LGBTQ delegates -- including a historic high of 27 transgender delegates -- will also be attending the Democratic convention.

“The party is slated to adopt the most inclusive and progressive platform ever on LGBTQ equality. That proposed platform includes planks endorsing comprehensive non-discrimination protections, opposing anti-LGBTQ bills, condemning violence against transgender people, and calling for LGBTQ equality to continue to be a part of U.S. foreign policy. Mara Keisling, veteran trans advocate, served on the platform committee.”

The Gayly – July 26, 2016 @ 10:45 a.m.