State Legislature's first-ever LGBTQ caucus members reveal their goals, challenges for 86th session
Three members of the Texas Legislature’s LGBTQ caucus said their priorities this session were to increase representation for and reduce discrimination against members of the LGBTQ community on Tuesday.
The Daily Texan Events and Engagement staff hosted the state lawmakers for a panel moderated by Texan legislative reporter Chad Lyle. The caucus, which was formed in January, is made up of five LGBTQ women state representatives. The three members present at the panel said the need for increased representation was the main motivating factor for the caucus’ creation.
“We are part of the population at large, and the government should reflect the people,” state Rep. Erin Zwiener, D-Driftwood said. “That is one of the tenants of American government — of, by and for the people, and that includes every intersection of identity.”
The panel spoke about the need to reduce discrimination of the LGBTQ community and ensure the community’s rights. They discussed topics such as the controversial “bathroom bill,” supporting progressive voices and health insurance. However, they emphasized the LGBTQ community also faces problems with race, gender and economic inequality.
Read more: http://www.dailytexanonline.com/2019/02/20/state-legislatures-first-ever-lgbtq-caucus-members-reveal-their-goals-challenges-for-86th
