Team,

As a gay person, I often questioned whether there was a place for me in public life.

I could never have imagined that I would become New Hampshire's first openly gay member of Congress – and the acceptance and support from Granite Staters has been incredible.

Last year I had the joy of marrying my best friend, my husband Vann. Our wedding day was filled with love and happiness, marking one of the most memorable and fulfilling days of my life.

But even in light of such a joyous occasion, it's difficult to not feel disheartened by the few extreme politicians who openly oppose our right to marry who we love and be who we are. We're witnessing a surge in attacks against the LGBTQ+ community, both here in New Hampshire and across the country.

Dangerous laws are being proposed – and passed – that undermine our basic rights and freedoms by allowing discrimination in schools, restricting discussions about LGBTQ+ topics, and even denying essential healthcare to transgender individuals. But I want to be clear about something: These attacks aren't about "protecting" Americans. They contradict the principle of equal protection under the law and aim to push us back into the shadows.

Pride Month has always been a time of joy, gratitude, and resistance. I remain committed to the ongoing fight to defend the rights and liberties of all Americans.

I hope you'll join me in celebrating the progress we've made but also acknowledging the work that still lies ahead. If you stand with me in the fight for equality, sign on to my petition this Pride Month.

I'm grateful to have you by my side. Have a safe and happy Pride!

Onward,

Chris