Press Contacts:
GLAAD: jreyes@glaad.org
Equality Texas: johnathan.gooch@equalitytexas.org 

(Austin, Texas – May 28, 2024) Equality Texas, the largest nonprofit in Texas focused on securing full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people and GLAAD, the world’s largest LGBTQ media advocacy organization, are responding to the results of Tuesday’s Texas House District 146 Democratic Primary runoff between LGBTQ candidate Lauren Ashley Simmons and incumbent Shawn Thierry, who had voted for anti-LGBTQ legislation during the last state legislative session. 

As of Tuesday, Simmons held a clear lead over incumbent Thierry, a promising sign for Houston and the LGBTQ community in Texas. Last year, State Representative Thierry voted for anti-LGBTQ bills banning LGBTQ books and prohibiting certain healthcare for transgender minors. Lauren Ashley Simmons, a lifelong Houstonian and member of the LGBTQ community, has committed to advocating for all Texans, including the LGBTQ community. 

Statement from Ricardo Martinez, CEO of Equality Texas (he/him):

“This is a victory for all Texans. A clear message to the establishment that Texans won’t tolerate hate against their neighbors. You can’t stand on the House floor and amplify dangerous disinformation about trans Texans. If you do, the rest of us will step up to demand accountability and equality for our neighbors. We’re in this together, and lawmakers should take heed: using the LGBTQIA+ community as a scapegoat has consequences. Texans’ hearts are bigger than narrow-minded policies. Today, Lauren Ashley Simmons won because she has consistently stood with her community, fighting alongside us, not against us.”

Statement from Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD President and CEO (she/her): 

“Tonight’s primary runoff results in Texas House District 146 show that voters are demanding equality, compassion, and service in their elected leaders. As a member of the LGBTQ community, Simmons has promised to fight for all Houstonians and against the rising tide of anti-LGBTQ bills in the Lone Star State. Simmons’ primary win tonight proves that Texans will use their voices and votes for leaders who advocate for all, including the LGBTQ community.”

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About Equality Texas:
We envision a Texas where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Texans and their families have full equality in the hearts and minds of our fellow Texans and in all areas of the law. Equality Texas works to secure full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Texans through political action, education, community organizing, and collaboration.

About GLAAD: 

GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBTQ acceptance. As a dynamic media force, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change. GLAAD protects all that has been accomplished and creates a world where everyone can live the life they love. For more information, please visit www.glaad.org or connect with GLAAD on Facebook and Twitter.