Much needed progression in American Politics

The ongoing election in the United States of America is a tense event, the rivalry between the two parties has created chaos across the states. While it’s important that people use their voices and votes, it seems that people are getting easily lost in the negativity that comes with this tense time. With all attention focused on the two presidential candidates, we’ve missed some great people making history within the US politics by being the first in their role; check out this list of amazing people that are finally getting representation!

Taylor Small

Taylor Small is officially Vermont’s first transgender legislator, this ground-breaking victory making her the fifth transgender legislator ever in America. Since being elected, Small expressed her feelings, telling LBGTQ Nation, “Being the first means being that representation and being that guiding light. In a lot of ways, I don’t see it as a historical moment for myself, but more of a historical moment for the community.”

Michele Rayner-Goolsby 

Michele Rayner-Goolsby, who describes herself as an “unapologetic Black woman”, is the first Black queer woman to be elected to Florida’s House of Representatives. After her historic winning, Rayner-Goolsby said that her election “represents a new day”, and it sure does! It’s always great to see progressive change and representation within politics. 

Shevrin Jones 

Another win for Florida, Shevrin Jones was elected as Florida’s state senator, making him Florida’s first openly gay senator, as well as only one of two out LGBTQ Black men serving in state senates in America, alongside Jabari Brisport in New York. 

Mauree Turner 

Making US political history, Mauree Turner has become the first non-binary state lawmaker ever in America, after winning election to the Oklahoma state house, also making them the first Muslim in the state house. It’s about time that we see this progression, and speaking on the election, they told HuffPost “I’m Black, Muslim, femme, queer, born and raised in Oklahoma — politics was the last thing in my crosshairs.” 

Jabari Brisport 

Making history in New York, Jabari Brisport is elected as their first gay Black state senator. This new perspective in politics will hopefully encourage more people like Brisport to run in the future, politics is an area that is lacking in minorities and representation so it’s great to see this improvement.