Gavin

Some would argue that Gavin Newsom, more than any other individual, is responsible for making marriage equality happen in the united states.  Whether that is a fair statement is up for debate, but he certainly continues to be a strong LGBTQ ally.

The current Governor of California has gotten a lot of attention lately for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, but back in 2004, Newsom gained attention when he directed the San Francisco county clerk to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.  He continued his support for same-sex marriage throughout the fight and even presided at the wedding of gay rights activists Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin. Newsom has officiated numerous same-sex weddings since then.

Last year, shortly after becoming governor, he signed into law a statute that ensures that transgender students can obtain their school records and diplomas with their preferred name and gender pronoun.  Newsom has also been a regular participant in various lgbtq events over the years, including the annual San Francisco Pride Parade and AIDS Walk San Francisco. Earlier this year, Newsom posthumously pardoned gay civil rights leader Bayard Rustin, saying that Rustin was convicted unjustly because of his sexual orientation.

In his proclamation earlier this month, declaring June, 2020, as LGBTQ Pride Month in the State of California, Newsom said in part "Pride celebrations may look different this year, but in California, no matter the circumstances, we are proud to support our LGBTQ community’s right to live their lives out loud. As we celebrate Pride across the state, we must continue to demand equal rights for all to create a California for all."