Dear Friends,

I'm filled with a sense of pride and urgency. Our journey continues to be one of progress and perseverance, and I'm excited to share with you the strides we've made and the challenges that lie ahead.

Last week, I had the privilege of traveling to Georgia, where I connected with the Young Democrats of Georgia. It was truly inspiring to stand among these passionate young leaders, the future torchbearers of our party. Together, we rallied around our shared commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and threw our support behind Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz. The energy and dedication I witnessed there left me more convinced than ever that our future is in good hands.

While in Atlanta, I was proud to participate in the Global Black Pride march. As Grand Marshal, I was honored to lead a vibrant, diverse crowd through the streets. The experience was a powerful reminder of the intersectionality of our struggle and the strength we draw from our unity.

This week, our focus has shifted to what I like to call the HRC Super Bowl — our National Dinner. It's a time for celebration, reflection and recommitment to our cause. We're thrilled to be honoring the incomparable Cynthia Erivo, whose talent and advocacy have been a beacon for our community. Leslie Odom Jr. will be gracing our stage as well.

But what excites me most is the honor of having the coach who has won America’s hearts and will be the next Vice President of the United States join us. At this critical turning point in our democracy, Tim Walz’s presence underscores the importance of our work and the recognition it's receiving at the highest levels of government.

As we gather tomorrow, we'll celebrate how far we've come and steel ourselves for the battles ahead. With the election just 60 days away, we're in a crucial period that demands our utmost dedication and effort. I assure you, we're leaving no stone unturned in our fight for equality and justice.

Those of you who aren’t able to attend the National Dinner this year might be interested in HRC’s recent partnership with Special Occasion Studios, which is releasing a provocative new documentary called, Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln. This landmark film can be seen today, tomorrow, and Sunday nationwide, and if you purchase your tickets here, HRC will receive a portion of the proceeds.

Lover of Men fills in an important missing piece of Lincoln’s story and challenges us to consider why we as a society hold such limited views of human sexuality and gender identity. In this sense, it is also an exploration of sexual fluidity and gender roles — and an examination of both American intolerance and human possibility.

And the subject has never felt more relevant than it is today, as we barrel toward a consequential election in which our freedoms — including our freedom to love who we love and be who we are and live openly with pride — are on the line.

Lover of Men is a groundbreaking film. Experience this moment in theaters and celebrate our collective history together. See the trailer and buy your tickets today — and support HRC and our vital work to advance equality and liberation for everyone.

In these challenging times, I am profoundly grateful for each of you. Your unwavering support, tireless efforts and unyielding belief in our cause drive us forward.

Together, we've accomplished so much, but there's still work to be done. It's crucial to acknowledge that we face a significant backlash against inclusion work as we continue our fight. This pushback is a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect the progress we've made. We cannot and will not allow our community's hard-won rights and freedoms to be eroded. Now, more than ever, we must stand united and resolute in our commitment to equality and justice for all.

As we move into this critical period, let's carry with us the energy from Georgia, the pride from our march and the anticipation of our upcoming celebration. Let these experiences fuel our determination to fight for a world where every individual can live freely and fully, regardless of who they are or whom they love.

I am deeply honored to be on this journey with you. Here's to the battles we've won, the challenges we face and the victories that await us.

Dear Friends,

What a week it's been! Our National Dinner was truly a night of joy and inspiration, bringing together LGBTQ+ advocates and activists from across the country. The energy in the room was electric, reminding us all of the power of our community when we come together.

We were honored to have Minnesota Governor and Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz with us, who electrified the room with his case for the upcoming election. He promised that he and Vice President Kamala Harris would fight to pass the Equality Act and enshrine anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ Americans into law.

Governor Walz captured the essence of our struggle when he said:

"What this election boils down to, in a lot of ways, it's fundamentally about freedom… Donald Trump and JD Vance, their idea of freedom is that the government should be free to invade every corner of our lives — our bedrooms, our kid's schools, even our doctor's office… When it comes to personal things, bodily autonomy, your gender identity, when to start a family, marrying who you love… I think we just need to be really good neighbors. Everyone just deserves to be treated with respect — freedom to make that choice."

We were also thrilled to honor Cynthia Erivo with the HRC National Equality Award. Cynthia, a Tony, Grammy, and Emmy award-winning and Academy Award-nominated actor, moved us all with her heartfelt acceptance speech:

"Back then, when I received this award, I received it as an ally. And this time, I get to stand here and receive it as an out and proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community."

The evening was made even more special by the presence of Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer Leslie Odom, Jr., who presented the award to Cynthia. Our guests were also treated to inspiring performances from Our Lady J and Asher HaVon.

In my address to our HRC family, I emphasized that the attacks on LGBTQ+ Americans are designed to limit our basic freedoms. But we won't let them. Because pride and patriotism are the same damn thing. And in this moment, we are reclaiming both by showing up. And we know that when WE SHOW UP, equality wins.

While we celebrated our community's resilience and power, we also recognized that our work is far from over. We partied with a purpose, and then we got right back into the fight. This week, we've been tackling one of the most pressing issues facing our community: the alarming rollback of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in corporate America.

I'm proud to announce that despite these concerning trends, we're seeing record participation in our Corporate Equality Index (CEI). As I shared on CNBC's Squawk Box just this week, "We have over 1,400 hundred companies participating, representing over 21 million employees across this country."

This overwhelming response sends a clear message: inclusion is not just the right thing to do, it's good for business. However, we're also seeing a disturbing trend of companies abandoning their DEI commitments. In response, we've introduced significant deductions to the CEI scores of companies retreating from these crucial initiatives.

Several large American firms, including Ford, Molson-Coors, Tractor Supply Co, John Deere, Lowe's, Harley-Davidson, and Brown-Forman, have received 25-point deductions to their Responsibility Citizenship Criteria. These companies are part of a growing list of firms abandoning DEI initiatives after a public backlash from MAGA bullies. Furthermore, HRC members and supporters like you have sent more than 180,000 messages to the CEOs of these companies, urging them not to abandon their commitments to diversity and inclusivity, and you can send your message here.

Let me be clear: business leaders retreating from the values of inclusion and equity are making a decision that alienates their queer employees and customers. The attacks on DEI are just one part of a broader assault on LGBTQ+ rights and freedoms. From attempts to ban books and censor education to efforts to restrict healthcare access for transgender individuals, our opponents are working tirelessly to roll back our hard-won progress.

But we will not be silenced, and we will not back down.

This overwhelming response sends a clear message: inclusion is not just the right thing to do, it's good for business. We've also taken a stand against companies abandoning their DEI initiatives by introducing significant deductions to their CEI scores. Our community brings $1.4 trillion in spending power, and we're not afraid to use it to support businesses that stand with us.

As we face continued attacks on our basic freedoms, remember this: our National Dinner and the work we do together every day are a powerful reminder of our purpose and our collective strength. In the coming weeks, we'll be ramping up our efforts to engage voters, support pro-equality candidates and continue pushing for comprehensive protections for LGBTQ+ Americans.

Your support and involvement are more crucial than ever. Together, we will continue to make history and create a more just and inclusive world for all.

Dear Friends,

With just six weeks until the election, every day matters more than ever. This week has been a testament to the power and urgency of our work. From groundbreaking survey results to star-studded rallies, each moment has reinforced the strength and resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals across the nation.

On National Voter Registration Day, we unveiled the results of our annual HRCF LGBTQ+ Climate Survey, and the 2024 findings on the upcoming election are electrifying. Over 2,400 LGBTQ+ Americans lent their voices to this crucial study, revealing a community poised to make a significant impact at the ballot box.

The numbers speak volumes: an astounding 95% of LGBTQ+ adults are registered to vote, with nearly 75% highly motivated to cast their ballots in the 2024 elections. This level of engagement is a testament to our community's determination to shape the future of our nation.

LGBTQ+ equality and the fight against discriminatory legislation top the list of concerns, followed closely by reproductive rights and judicial reform. These priorities reflect that our community is not only fighting for our own rights but for a more just and equitable society for all.

Through our partnership with Pride to the Polls, we're harnessing the power of approximately 20 million eligible LGBTQ+ voters. This isn't just a voting bloc; it's a movement capable of transforming the political landscape. And with only six weeks left until Election Day, every moment counts in our efforts to mobilize and energize our community.

While statistics demonstrate our collective strength, individual stories have the power to change hearts and minds. Our new PSA campaign, "Daniel Really Suits You," does exactly that. This compelling narrative follows Daniel, a transgender teen, through common rites of passage — learning to shave, and nervously taking a driver's test.

WATCH THE FULL AD HERE

In a political climate where trans youth face relentless attacks, Daniel's story serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. It breaks down barriers, fostering understanding and empathy among those who may be unfamiliar with the experiences of transgender peoples.

The campaign's impact has been immediate and profound. We're witnessing people from all walks of life connect with Daniel's journey, recognizing the universal aspects of growing up. This is how we combat prejudice and build allies — by showcasing the everyday experiences that unite us all. In these final weeks before the election, stories like Daniel's are crucial in swaying hearts and minds.

Our fight for equality extends beyond the ballot box and into the boardroom. This week, HRC led an effort to join 20+ major civil rights organizations in sending a unified message to Fortune 1000 executives directly. Our message was clear: Defend your values of workplace inclusion — the future success of your business depends on it.

We backed our call to action with compelling data. Companies embracing diversity consistently outperform their competitors. Data shows that companies with high gender and ethnic diversity outperform others by 12%, while those lagging behind in executive diversity underperform by 27%. Moreover, 60% of individuals consider an inclusive work culture crucial in their employment decisions. This isn't about politics; it's about building stronger, more innovative, and more profitable businesses.

We know we’re not alone in this fight. Industry leaders from J.P. Morgan, Mastercard and other major corporations have publicly reaffirmed their commitment to DEI. This demonstrates the power of our collective voice to influence even the largest organizations. As we approach the election, these corporate commitments become even more critical in safeguarding LGBTQ+ rights in the workplace.

To cap off this extraordinary week, we joined forces with some of the biggest names in entertainment and politics. Oprah Winfrey hosted a rally featuring Vice President Kamala Harris and a constellation of Hollywood stars, including Jennifer Lopez, Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts.

But this wasn't just about celebrity power. It was a clarion call for civic engagement, a reminder of the immense power each voter holds. Vice President Harris's words about stepping up in crucial moments resonated deeply, encapsulating the very essence of our mission at HRC. With the election just around the corner, this rally served as a powerful motivator to get out the vote.

The Path Forward: Six Weeks to Make History

As we reflect on this week's achievements, we're filled with renewed determination and a sense of urgency. We have just six weeks — 42 days — to make our voices heard in this critical election. Every single day matters in our fight for equality and justice.

We've seen concrete evidence of our community's political clout. We've shared stories that bridge divides and foster understanding. We've championed inclusion in the corporate world. And we've united our voices with influential allies to rally for engagement. Now, we must channel this momentum into action.

Your continued engagement is vital. Every conversation with a neighbor, every stand taken in your workplace, every vote cast — these actions collectively form the bedrock of our movement. In these final weeks, we need every member of our community to step up, speak out, and take action.

Remember, it's the everyday actions that fuel monumental change. The support we show each other, the courage to live authentically, the determination to demand equality — these are the forces that propel us forward. And with the election so close, each of these actions takes on even greater significance.

As we count down to Election Day, let's carry the energy of this week with us. Let's harness the power we've demonstrated when we stand united. Together, we'll continue to fight for a world where every LGBTQ+ person can live openly, safely and with dignity.

Your commitment fuels our progress. Together, we are an unstoppable force for equality. And in these next six weeks, we have the power to shape the future of our nation. Let's make every day count.

Dear Friends,

As I reflect on this past week, I'm filled with inspiration and renewed determination. The highlight of my week was undoubtedly attending the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI). Walking into those rooms, I was immediately struck by the palpable energy of change-makers from around the world. It was a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that leadership, storytelling, and collective action can have on advancing human rights.

One of the most memorable moments came when I had the privilege of meeting Secretary Hillary Clinton. As we spoke, I couldn't help but express my deep gratitude for her trailblazing leadership and unwavering commitment to LGBTQ+ equality over the decades. Her resilience and dedication continue to inspire our movement.

The CGI also provided an opportunity to connect with incredible storytellers and artists who are using their platforms to shift hearts and minds. The brilliant Shonda Rhimes, whose storytelling has brought diverse LGBTQ+ characters into millions of homes, shared the power storytelling has to move hearts and change minds. And I got to talk with dynamic artists like Madison Tevlin and Aloe Blacc, whose work seamlessly blends artistry with advocacy.

These encounters at CGI reinforced a crucial truth that has been at the core of our movement: visibility is the antidote to hate. It always has been. From the dark days of the AIDS crisis, when businesses stepped up to educate the public, to the groundbreaking ad campaigns that helped humanize our community, our history proves that when we are seen, understood and accepted, positive change follows.

However, as we celebrate these moments of progress, we must also confront the harsh realities facing our community. The FBI's recent release of its annual hate crime report for 2023 serves as a sobering reminder of the work still ahead. The numbers are deeply troubling, with a significant increase in hate crimes targeting individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity. These statistics aren't just numbers – they represent real people in our community who have faced violence and discrimination simply for being who they are.

With less than 40 days until the election, these challenges take on a new urgency. Recent reports have highlighted potential threats to LGBTQ+ rights that could emerge in a second Trump term, including the removal of federal protections based on gender identity and limited access to crucial medical care for the transgender community. The stakes couldn't be higher.

But here's what gives me hope: our community has faced seemingly insurmountable odds before, and we've always emerged stronger. We have the power to write the next chapter of our history.

As we move forward, let's carry with us the spirit of innovation and collaboration I witnessed at the CGI. Let's harness the power of visibility and storytelling that has driven our progress thus far. And let's recommit ourselves to the fight for a future where every LGBTQ+ person can thrive — not just survive — in every corner of our nation.