TO THE EDITOR:
Straight progressive allies are crucial to advancing the rights of gay and transgender North Carolinians, as well as citizens of towns and cities across the state.
At Equality N.C., we value straight allies tremendously. But a fact remains — in order to have a serious conversation about LGBT rights, we must have LGBT elected leaders.
Two of these crucial leaders — not just for the town, but for all of North Carolina — are right here in Chapel Hill.
I understand that many in the race for mayor and council are in favor of LGBT rights. But just as women should be leading the debate around women’s health and people of color should be leading the conversation around racial justice with the rest of us following, LGBT elected officials must be leading a conversation about fair and inclusive communities.
Mayor Mark Kleinschmidt and council member Lee Storrow have been thoughtful leaders for all of Chapel Hill, and they also provide critical leadership in Chapel Hill, the Triangle and beyond for LGBT people.
They are tireless advocates for Chapel Hill to the rest of the state, and for gay and transgender people throughout North Carolina. Equality N.C. has endorsed both for reelection, as we absolutely need their leadership as out-LGBT elected officials to continue to advance a sustainable community and state of equality.
We only have a handful of out elected officials across the state, and Mark and Lee are two of the very best.
