LGBT community represented at DNC by first openly lesbian Oregon House Speaker

By Sophia Babb
Journalism Intern

Equality and justice for the LGBT community is spoken for by the House Speaker of Oregon, Tina Kotek, Monday at the Democratic National Convention.

"Hillary Clinton is our answer to intolerance and fear. I have her back because I know she stands with all of us."

For this reason, she says she is "with Hillary."

Oregon is a historically progressive and liberal state, and Kotek's time as the Oregon House Speaker has been rich with efforts for progressive issues and LGBT rights. 

Kotek became House Speaker of Oregon in 2013, making her the first open lesbian in the United States to lead a legislative chamber.  

Kotek also worked to pass historic legislation creating domestic partnerships in Oregon, and ending discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Sara Ritsch contributed to this report.

Copyright 2016 The Gayly - 7/25/2016 @ 5:59 p.m. CDT