Hi John,
Early in the 2020 campaign cycle, I made history as the first out trans person elected in West Virginia history. I’m honored to represent my chosen home on the Wheeling City Council, and help push a bold progressive agenda that empowers our community.
When the news broke that I won, I was thrilled to receive messages of support from all around the country and hear from other trans and non-binary people that my win had given them hope. But there was a sentiment I want to address: so many people were SHOCKED that a trans person could win in West Virginia, of all places. After all, isn’t it a deep red state?
But I’m here to tell you: trans candidates CAN win everywhere, even in states like mine! But we need more trans people to run, and we have to give them the support they need to win. Victory Institute is the only national LGBTQ organization focused on training, supporting and elevating trans and nonbinary people ready to run. Will you make an End of Year donation to boost their work in 2021 and beyond?
Since the Year of the Trans Candidate in 2017, when Virginia Delegate Danica Roem defeated Bigot Bob Marshall, more and more out trans people have stepped up to run. In 2020, we DOUBLED the number of out trans state legislators and shattered rainbow ceilings in several states. All of our trans incumbents won their reelection campaigns, ensuring they’ll be able to keep fighting for equality in state government and judicial seats across the country.
But we must keep winning and breaking barriers for trans people everywhere. The trans advocates and leaders that Victory Institute trains in 2021 will have the tools they need to run successful campaigns in 2021, 2022 and beyond. Chip in today to power their work and support trans voices!
Powering the next Year of the Trans Candidate starts now. And with you on our team, we can win.
Thank you for standing with us,
Rosemary Ketchum
Wheeling (WV) City Council Representative
