In conjunction with its annual Creating Change conference held in early February in Dallas, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force executive director Rea Carey delivered her “State of Our Movement Address,” citing advancements in equality for LGBT Americans that have occurred in the past decade.
In the speech, Carey noted that the number of states recognizing same-sex relationships increased from two to 11 plus the District of Columbia, with the number of states outlawing discrimination based on sexual orientation increasing from 11 to 21.
The number of states outlawing discrimination based on gender identity and expression jumped from just one state to 13. And in 2010, Carey noted, the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Act were signed into law, protecting LGBT people in federal law.
Rea also noted the increasing number of openly gay individuals elected to public office, including Annise D. Parker, who became mayor of the city of Houston in January. —N.F.
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