Mara Keisling, the executive director of the National Center for Transgender Equality, will attend the State of the Union address as a guest of Representative Deb Haaland (D-NM).
“I am so honored by this invitation from Rep. Haaland,” said Keisling. “She is a tireless advocate for the equality of all transgender people—in her district and across the country. I hope to attend the event in honor of the millions of people persecuted and targeted by this lawless President and his reckless administration.”
“After the attack on transgender military personnel by this administration and the Supreme Court’s misguided decision, it is important to lift up the voices of our transgender community,” said Congresswoman Deb Haaland. “After meeting with Mara last week, it was clear that her work to fight hate was a perfect contrast to the discriminatory policies pushed by this administration. We’ll be working together to protect trans troops and be a force for equality in these troubling times.”
Keisling is one of several transgender advocates who will be attending the event, alongside Navy Lieutenant Commander Blake Dremann who is attending as a guest of Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Air Force Staff Sergeant Logan Ireland who is attending as a guest of Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA), Navy Petty Officer Second Class Megan Winters who is attending as a guest of Rep. Donald McEachin (D-VA), and Navy veteran Tavion Dignard who is attending as a guest of Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH).
Congresswoman Haaland is a member of the Congressional Equality Caucus, a group of lawmakers that serves as a resource for members of Congress, their staff, and the public on LGBTQ issues at the federal level. The caucus works toward the extension of equal rights, the repeal of discriminatory laws, the elimination of hate-motivated violence, and the improved health and well-being for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity and expression.
