FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 31, 2021

TALLAHASSEE, FL – On March 29-30, the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus held its annual Lobby Days event. More than 50 caucus members from across the state met virtually with 20 State Senators and Representatives to lobby them on the Caucus’ priority legislation:

• Support HB 1465 / SB 1618: HIV Modernization
• Support HB 1471 / SB 718: Eliminating the Gay and Transgender Panic Defense
• Opposing the Transgender Sports Ban (HB 1475 / SB 2012)

As March 31 brings Transgender Day of Visibility, the Caucus is honoring the strength and achievements of transgender Floridians. We celebrate the progress that’s been made for LGBTQ+ civil rights, while also recognizing we have much more work to do.

Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus President Stephen Gaskill issued the following statement regarding the Caucus’ 2021 Lobby Days:

“Our strength lies not only in the size and breadth of our organization, but also in our members’ stories. Lobby Days gave us an opportunity to share those stories and engage directly with our elected officials. We will keep making this impact until full equality is achieved.”

Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus Legislative Director Nathan Bruemmer noted the long-term work that must continue:

“Our members have communicated our values and our concerns to the Florida Legislature. Now, on Transgender Day of Visibility, we’re reminded that we must keep up the fight by opposing discrimination and supporting equality legislation that protects transgender and gender non-binary Floridians.”

Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus Deputy Legislative Director Robin Witt thanked Lobby Days participants:

“We thank our incredible members for advocating on behalf of transgender kids, LGBTQ+ people of color, and Floridians living with HIV. Our LGBTQ+ community is stronger and closer to equal treatment under the law because of this dedication and commitment.”

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