Monday, October 2, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STATEMENT ON LAPHONZA BUTLER’S APPOINTMENT TO U.S. SENATE
LOS ANGELES - The Stonewall Democratic Club celebrates Laphonza Butler's historic appointment as California's newest U.S. Senator by Governor Gavin Newsom, succeeding the late Senator Dianne Feinstein. This momentous appointment marks a historical milestone and carries particular significance for the LGBTQIA+ community as Laphonza Butler becomes the first openly lesbian woman of color in the U.S. Senate at a time when our rights are increasingly under attack nationally. Her presence in this prestigious position will break barriers and inspire individuals from all backgrounds to pursue government and public service leadership roles.
Laphonza Butler's exceptional background encompasses labor advocacy, political leadership, and public service. Her appointment underscores Governor Newsom's ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion in California's leadership, reinforcing our state's reputation as a beacon of progressive values.
Throughout her exceptional career, Butler has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of working people, women, and marginalized communities. She began as a labor leader and rose to prominence as the SEIU California State Council president. As Executive Director of EMILY's List, she continues to champion pro-choice Democratic women in politics. Additionally, Butler has played a pivotal role in advocating for a $15 minimum wage in California.
Her extensive experience working with lawmakers, the labor movement, community leaders, and activists positions her excellently to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities ahead as a U.S. Senator. Her keen insights into California's unique needs and her commitment to equity and justice will benefit our state on a national scale.
The Stonewall Democratic Club proudly congratulates Laphonza Butler, her wife Neneki, and their daughter Nyla on this momentous occasion. We eagerly anticipate working alongside Senator Butler to advance our shared values of equality, justice, and inclusivity. As we celebrate this historic appointment, it serves as a reminder that progress continues, and our nation's leadership increasingly mirrors its diverse and vibrant population.
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Since 1975, the Stonewall Democrats have been the home for progressive Democrats who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and straight allies of the LGBT community, and has been a powerful grassroots non-profit political organization seeking to effect political change.
The first Stonewall Democratic club in the nation established for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals, and straight allies committed to achieving equality for all and to advancing progressive and feminist values through the Democratic Party at all levels of the political process, local, state and federal. SDC is an all-volunteer grassroots non-profit political organization and is among the largest Democratic Clubs in California.
Stonewall Democratic Club
Media Contact:
Alex Paris
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310-920-9078