NM Democrats Celebrate Pride Month

Jun

2024

PRESS RELEASE

NM Democrats Celebrate Pride Month

Chair of DPNM LGBTQ Caucus Reflects on Progress and Continued Work

Today, The Democratic Party of New Mexico proudly kicks off Pride Month by reaffirming long-standing support for the LGBTQIA+ community and reflecting on historic accomplishments and individuals in the fight for equality in New Mexico.

DPNM LGBTQ+ Caucus Chair Augustine Montoya in recognition of Pride Month:

“New Mexico Democrats remain committed to the fundamental rights of our LGBTQIA+ community. New Mexico Democrats at all levels have been committed allies of our LGBTQIA+ family, friends, and neighbors for years, championing the right to equal treatment under the law for every LGBTQIA+ and trans person.

“As Democrats, we continue this fight daily. Whereas Republicans have made it clear that they are steadfast enemies of LGBTQIA+ rights and would attack trans and queer kids, overturn marriage equality, and try to force LGBTQIA+ people right back into the closet if given the chance.”

National and New Mexican Republicans continue to undermine marriage equality and oppose fundamental LGBTQIA+ rights. The New Mexico GOP’s website openly details their discriminatory position that defines marriage between “one man and one woman.”

(Screenshot from https://newmexico.gop/about-rpnm/)

In contrast, New Mexico Democrats proudly include LGBTQIA+ rights, including marriage equality in our official platform and have a proud tradition of standing for these rights. NM Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver led the way to the legalization of marriage in Bernalillo County in 2013 as County Clerk; NM Senator Liz Stefanics was the first openly gay state legislator in New Mexico history, and along with her partner, the first gay couple to be legally married in Santa Fe County; and DPNM Vice Chair Manny Crespin and Secretary Isaac Dakota Casados are both openly gay men.

During the 2023 Legislative Session, our Democratic Governor and legislators were able to turn the Reproductive and Gender Affirming Care Act into law, ensuring New Mexico is a safe place for critical gender affirming care.