HRC Celebrates Everton Blair’s Victory in Georgia’s 13th Congressional District Special Election

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson released the following statement today celebrating the historic victory of Everton Blair in the special election in Georgia this week:

"Everton Blair's victory in Georgia's 13th Congressional District is an exciting and historic moment for his new constituents, for the entire state, and for the LGBTQ+ community. When sworn in, Everton will become Georgia's first openly LGBTQ+ member of Congress and the first Black, openly gay member of Congress from the South. At a moment when LGBTQ+ people are being told to shrink or hide our identities, Everton's presence in the halls of Congress will make clear that we belong wherever decisions are being made about our lives and wellbeing. His voice will strengthen our fight for equality while allowing more Americans to see themselves represented in one of our nation's highest offices.

"As the son of Jamaican immigrants, Everton will also become the first LGBTQ+ Jamaican-American to serve in Congress. His achievement reflects the global reach and interconnectedness of our movement, celebrates the diversity that has always strengthened America and sends an unmistakable signal across borders: LGBTQ+ people are everywhere, our dignity is not negotiable, and we deserve equality, respect and freedom-no matter where we live or where our families began.

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is the nation's largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people, with 3.6 million members and supporters. The HRC Foundation (a 501(c)(3)) works to ensure LGBTQ+ people are safe, seen and supported where it matters most: at school, at work and in every community across the country. From the courtroom to the classroom, from Congress to corporate America, HRC and the HRC Foundation build power through partnerships, storytelling, and action-working to create a future rooted in equity, freedom and belonging for all LGBTQ+ people.