This evening, Vice President Joe Biden officially earned enough pledged delegates to the Democratic National Convention to earn its nomination for President. Human Rights Campaign President Alphonso David issued the following statement:

“In this presidential primary, Democrats chose a nominee from among the most pro-equality field in our nation’s history. For the first time, voters had a substantive discussion of issues with the candidates on topics ranging from healthcare to civil rights protections to the epidemic of violence facing Black transgender women.  

“After a thorough examination of the candidates, Democratic primary voters chose a nominee who not only has a progressive record but a strong and clear commitment to advance pro-equality issues for all marginalized groups: Vice President Joe Biden. He has long been a champion for our community, supporting us when it wasn’t politically expedient to do so and ahead of members of his own party. The Human Rights Campaign was proud to endorse him last month and we will utilize every tool we have available to elect a pro-equality ally to the White House.

“But this moment isn’t just about electing the man Joe Biden – it is about turning the page, implementing his vision and restoring the soul of our nation. Over the last week, black people and others have cried out for our desperate need for change. Only one candidate has spoken to the heart of our anguish -- police brutality and systemic racism -- and proposed concrete policies to make positive change. Only one candidate showed empathy with the thousands of peaceful protestors crying out for change. Vice President Biden is clearly both able to and adept at leading our nation in a time of crisis.

“President Trump has shown himself ignorant of the reality facing people of color in our nation and should be ashamed of his actions. This week, Trump used language reminiscent of a time many thought was long behind us, but that people of color know all too well: the hate-speech of the likes of Bull Connor and George Wallace. But he will not silence our voice, he will not silence our demands for change. This November, we will protest with our votes and create a new America -- an America focused on establishing equality and addressing the central issues that have plagued us for generations.”