John,
Thirty-six years ago, about a dozen LGBTQ elected officials gathered in West Hollywood to discuss how they could work together to better respond to the AIDS crisis, repeal sodomy laws and elect more LGBTQ people to public office. U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin even called the event a “support group” disguised as a conference. But from these humble origins, the International LGBTQ Leaders Conference has continued to grow, becoming the largest gathering of LGBTQ elected and appointed officials anywhere in the world.
Throughout those 36 years, the International LGBTQ Leaders Conference has undergone many transformations – and 2020 will be another one. For the first time, the conference will be held virtually, to ensure all our participants can attend safely. The dates remain the same – Thursday, December 3 – Saturday, December 5 – but the days will be a bit shorter.
While we will miss seeing you in person, I am excited about the opportunity for the conference to reach even more of our LGBTQ elected officials, advocates and leaders. Sharing information, experiences and best practices across our network is the core of the International LGBTQ Leaders Conference. With more of us, our impact on equality only grows.
So without further ado, registration for the 2020 International LGBTQ Leaders Conference is now open!
Thursday, December 3 – Saturday, December 5
Register Now!
Now, I know networking and our social events are highlights of the conference. But we will continue to provide opportunities to connect with other LGBTQ leaders and do our best to ensure these events are fun (and you won’t need to wear a name tag!).
The outstanding keynote speakers, engaging breakout sessions and meaningful networking you’ve come to love will all be there. As will all of you – the people who make this conference so special.
I’m looking forward to it. I hope you are too.
Stay safe,
Ruben J. Gonzales
Pronouns: he|him|his
Vice President of LGBTQ Victory Institute
