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MassEquality PAC Announces 1st Round of Endorsements in 2018 Races
Today, the MassEquality PAC announced its first round of endorsements for the 2018 legislative races.

First-time candidates endorsed by MassEquality PAC include:
- Gretchen Van Ness (14^th Suffolk)
- Sabrina Heisey (36^th Middlesex)
“Both of these candidates have been effective advocates and supporters of LGBTQ equality in their communities,” said MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH. “We are confident that they will also be outstanding champions of LGBTQ rights on Beacon Hill.”

MassEquality PAC’s incumbent endorsees include:
“Our endorsed incumbent candidates have a proven track record of consistently supporting legislation that is vital to our community,” Ms. Shields added. “Representative Lewis and Senator Cyr are particularly strong advocates in the Legislature, and Senator Eldridge has a long record of standing with our community. We are proud to endorse these candidates, and we look forward to working with them in the State House to ensure everyone in Massachusetts enjoys equality and justice.”

For more information on the candidates, their platforms and the MassEquality PAC endorsement process, please visit www.massequalitypac.org.
Sabrina Heisey – 36th Middlesex
Sabrina Heisey (D – 36th Middlesex District)

Sabrina Heisey is a member of the Dracut School Committee, and wants to represent the people of Dracut and Tyngsborough on Beacon Hill. Last May, Heisey beat a three-term incumbent to win a seat on the school committee, and is now challenging Rep. Colleen Garry, an anti-LGBTQ lawmaker who has held the seat for over 20 years. Heisey is not afraid to stand up for what is right, as her time served on the Dracut school committee has shown. MassEquality PAC is pleased to join Mass Alliance and several other organizations in endorsing her campaign.
Gretchen Van Ness – 14th Suffolk
Gretchen Van Ness (D – 14th Suffolk)
Gretchen Van Ness is a civil rights lawyer and Hyde Park resident who seeks to represent the people of Hyde Park, Roslindale and West Roxbury. She has spent over three decades advocating to protect the basic human rights of all Massachusetts citizens. Before running for office, she was President of the Board of Hyde Jackson Square Main Street, and she is the current co-chair of the Zoning Committee of the Fairmount Hill Neighborhood Association. She also served as President of the Women’s Bar Association of Massachusetts, and has been recognized as a Best of Boston attorney by Boston magazine. MassEquality PAC is honored to endorse Gretchen in her campaign.
Sathya Mandjiny Joins MassEquality as Political Manager

MassEquality is pleased to welcome Sathya Mandjiny as our new Political Manager.

Sathya completed her Masters in Social Work at Boston College, focusing on legislative advocacy. She was an intern at the Massachusetts State House for both the House and Senate, and gained legislative advocacy experience at the National Association of Social Workers-Massachusetts Chapter as their LEAD coordinator, where she focused on legislation surrounding child welfare and criminal justice.

Prior to joining MassEquailty, Sathya worked at Lynch Associates as Account Coordinator, working with the legislative team on a variety of issues including health care and transportation.
MassEquality PAC Announces Endorsement of Sue Chalifoux Zephir for State Senate
Today, the MassEquality PAC announced its endorsement of Sue Chalifoux Zephir for State Senate. Sue is running to represent the Worcester and Middlesex District in a special election to be held on December 5th.

“Sue Chalifoux Zephir is an advocate and longtime supporter of the LGBTQ community,” said MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH. “Her experience and awareness of LGBTQ issues makes her ideally suited to be an advocate for the community on Beacon Hill.”

LGBTQ rights have become a top issue in this race after Republican opponent Dean Tran claimed that transgender anti-discrimination policies endanger children, and referred to transgender people as individuals “experiencing an identity crisis” while also equating them with “sexual predators” during a recent debate. Mr. Tran also expressed support for the defunding of Planned Parenthood, a critical provider of health services for the LGBTQ community in the Commonwealth.

“This rhetoric is dangerous and puts members of the LGBTQ community at risk in Massachusetts,” continued Ms. Shields. “Transgender people deserve to be treated with the dignity and respect that is given to everyone else. I urge Mr. Tran to use this incident as a learning experience. We commend Ms. Chalifoux Zephir for standing up for equality in her responses to his troubling comments. We are proud to support her.”

For more information on the MassEquality PAC endorsement process, please visit www.massequalitypac.org.
Massachusetts Votes for Fairness and Equality
MassEquality celebrates LGBTQ victories in yesterday’s election

A total of 20 candidates endorsed by the MassEquality PAC successfully won their races in yesterday’s general election, increasing the number of pro-LGBTQ legislators in the State House. MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH issued the following statement in response:

“We’re pleased to announce that 15 MassEquality PAC-endorsed incumbents kept their seats in the Legislature, despite an inflammatory smear campaign launched by anti-LGBTQ conservatives targeting legislators who voted for the Transgender Anti-Discrimination law. In fact, all of the candidates who were targeted won their races. These victories send the clear message that negative campaigns based on fear-mongering and deception are ineffective when it comes to swaying Massachusetts voters.

“The PAC also endorsed five pro-LGBTQ challengers who won their races against incumbents, including two openly gay candidates. These victories increase the number of LGBTQ supporters on Beacon Hill, giving us more strong allies in the fight for full LGBTQ equality.

“We congratulate our winning candidates, and we look forward to working with them in the State House. These victories are proof that Massachusetts supports fairness and equality for all, and that taking a strong stand for LGBTQ rights is valued by voters in the Commonwealth.”

Winning MassEquality PAC-Endorsed Candidates – November 9, 2016

Governor’s Council

Eileen Duff (5th Governor’s Council)

MA Senate

Julian Cyr (Cape & Islands)
Senator Jamie Eldridge (Middlesex & Worcester)
Senator Eric Lesser (1st Hampden & Hampshire)
Senator Jason Lewis (5th Middlesex)
Senator Barbara L’Italien (2nd Essex & Middlesex)
Senator Stan Rosenberg (Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester)

MA House

Representative Cory Atkins (14th Middlesex)
Representative Evandro Carvalho (5th Suffolk)
Representative Mike Day (31st Middlesex)
Representative Dan Donahue (16th Worcester)
Dylan Fernandes (Barnstable, Dukes and Nantucket)
Representative Ken Gordon (21st Middlesex)
Representative Danielle Gregoire (4th Middlesex)
Natalie Higgins (4th Worcester)
Jack Patrick Lewis (7th Middlesex)
Representative Liz Malia (11th Suffolk)
Joan Meschino (3rd Plymouth)
Representative Denise Provost (27th Middlesex)
Representative Tom Stanley (9th Middlesex)
Joan Meschino, 3rd Plymouth
Joan Meschino (D – 3rd Plymouth)

Former Hull Selectman Joan Meschino has spent her professional career fighting for progressive causes across Massachusetts. A strong advocate for social justice issues, Meschino currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Women’s Bar Association of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Bar Association’s Access to Justice Selection Council. The MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse her in her campaign.
Eileen Duff, 5th Governor’s Council District
Eileen Duff (5th Governor’s Council District)

Eileen Duff has been the 5th District’s Governor’s Councilor since January 2013. As the only non-lawyer serving on the Governor’s Council, Eileen brings a different perspective to the process of interviewing and confirming justices serving throughout the Commonwealth. Prior to being elected to the Council, Eileen worked in the Massachusetts State House and on Capitol Hill. MassEquality PAC is proud to support Eileen for re-election.
Rosemary Sandlin, 3rd Hampden
Rosemary Sandlin (D – 3rd Hampden)

Rosemary represented the 3rd Hampden District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 2007–2011, and spent 22 years as a member of the Agawam, MA School Committee. While a Representative, Rosemary worked hard to ensure that all residents in the Commonwealth had the right to marry the person they love. MassEquality PAC is happy to endorse Rosemary Sandlin in her campaign.
Paul Jacques, 4th Bristol
Paul Jacques (D – 4th Bristol)

Paul is running to represent the towns of Rehoboth and Seekonk. A retired military veteran and firefighter, Paul has dedicated his life to public service and hopes to continue to do so in the House. He is dedicated to being an advocate and a voice for his entire district, including the LGBTQ community. MassEquality is proud to endorse Paul in his election campaign.
Moses Dixon, 17th Worcester
Moses Dixon (D – 17th Worcester)

A longtime Worcester resident, Moses Dixon has served as Representative Mary Keefe’s legislative aide on Beacon Hill. He was also a legislative fellow in the office of U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid. He is also deeply involved in his community as a board member for several business and community development organizations. This is Moses’ second time running for State Representative, and MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse him.
Dan Donahue, 16th Worcester
Dan Donahue (D – 16th Worcester)

Representative Donahue was first elected in June 2013. Born and raised in Worcester, he is finishing his second term in office. Rep. Donahuehe serves as a member on the following committees: Labor and Workforce Development, Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy, Transportation, and House Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets. Since being sworn in, Rep. Donahue has been a solid advocate for the LGBTQ community. MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse him in his bid for reelection.
New! Updated Voter Guide for the MA General Election
The MassEquality PAC has updated its 2-page voter guide listing our endorsed candidates for the 2016 House and Senate races in Massachusetts to reflect the results of the September 8th Primary election. Please click the image below to download and print this handy guide and take it to the polls with you on Tuesday, November 8th!
Phone Bank for Our Endorsed Candidates
You Can Help Send Pro-Equality Candidates to the State House!
MassEquality endorses candidates for state-wide office who support our policy priorities, such as:

Protecting transgender people from discrimination

Banning mental health practices seeking to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of minors

Guaranteeing that LGBTQ seniors are treated with respect and receive culturally competent care

Providing our youth with sexuality education that is age-appropriate and medically accurate

One of the most important things we can do for these candidates is contact voters in their district to ask for their support. By volunteering to make phone calls for MassEquality’s endorsed candidates, your help could make the difference between sending a solid LGBTQ advocate to Beacon Hill or a legislator who will consistently oppose equality.

We have several phone bank opportunities coming up soon!

You can make calls at your home or at a candidate’s campaign office. All you need is a phone and a computer. If you would like to volunteer for a candidate on a particular day, please feel free to contact us, and we’ll help you find a volunteer opportunity that fits your schedule.

Please sign up using our Campaign Volunteer Form, and we’ll get in touch with you soon to let you know about phone banks and canvassing opportunities for candidates in your area.

If you want to volunteer for the MassEquality PAC in another way, please sign up using our PAC Volunteer Form, and we’ll contact you about your interests and our current volunteer opportunities.

Photo Credits: AFL-CIO America’s Unions on Flickr, CC-BY-2.0; MassEquality.
MassEquality PAC Congratulates Endorsed Candidates
[L-R: Jack Lewis, Juana Matias, Natalie Higgins, Rep. Danielle Gregoire]

Thursday’s Massachusetts Primary election was a busy and exciting one for us here at MassEquality. Of the 14 candidates endorsed by the MassEquality PAC who faced opponents in the September 8th Primary, 12 of them won against their opponents. The election results are a clear victory, not only for the candidates, but also for the LGBTQ community in Massachusetts. Our thanks go out to everyone who volunteered, phone banked, knocked on doors in neighborhoods, and most importantly, voted for these committed LGBTQ rights champions! Your hard work and support helped make these victories happen.

“We are very proud of each of our endorsed candidates in yesterday’s Primary election, and we congratulate them on their victories,” said MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH. “The election results were a huge win for progressive candidates and champions of LGBTQ rights, and they demonstrate that supporting equal rights for all does not lessen a candidate’s chances of being elected. We are especially pleased that openly gay candidates Julian Cyr (Cape & Islands) and Jack Lewis (7^th Middlesex) won their races by strong margins, showing support among voters for LGBTQ representation on Beacon Hill.”

[L-R: Jen Migliore, Rep. Liz Malia, Rep. Evandro Carvalho, Julian Cyr]

“Even as we celebrate these victories along with our endorsed candidates, we are preparing for November’s General election when more of our endorsees will face challengers, some of whom work against equality,” Ms. Shields continued. “With the support of our members throughout the state, MassEquality will continue working hard to turn these Primary election wins into solid victories for fairness, justice and equality on November 8th.”

Congratulations to Thursday’s winners!
First-Time Candidates:
- Julian Cyr (Cape & Islands)
- Dylan Fernandes (Barnstable, Dukes & Nantucket)
- Natalie Higgins (4th Worcester)
- Jack Lewis (7th Middlesex)
- Juana Matias (16th Essex)
- Jen Migliore (9th Essex)
Incumbents:
- Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz (2nd Suffolk)
- Sen. Pat Jehlen (2nd Middlesex)
- Rep. Evandro Carvalho (5th Suffolk)
- Rep. Marjorie Decker (25th Middlesex)
- Rep. Danielle Gregoire (4th Middlesex)
- Rep. Liz Malia (11th Suffolk)
[L-R: Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz, Rep. Marjorie Decker, Dylan Fernandes, Sen. Pat Jehlen]

The MassEquality PAC will announce further endorsements in the coming weeks for the upcoming General Election on November 8th.

As Deborah Shields said above, many of our candidates will have serious competition in the General Election, some of whom oppose LGBTQ rights. This means that we’ll need your help more than ever to keep our LGBTQ champions in the State House.

Would you like to volunteer to support a pro-equality candidate in your local area? Sign up with our Volunteer Team, and we’ll get you connected with a campaign near you!

Are you interested in supporting the work of the MassEquality PAC and electing pro-LGBTQ candidates to office? Click here to support the MassEquality PAC.

Mark Your Calendar: The General Election is
Tuesday, November 8th—Don’t Forget to VOTE!
Download our Primary Voter Guide!
The MassEquality PAC has created a 2-page voter guide listing our endorsed candidates for the 2016 House and Senate races in Massachusetts. Please click the image below to download and print this handy guide and take it to the polls with you on Thursday, September 8th!
Dylan Fernandes; Barnstable, Dukes and Nantucket
Dylan Fernandes (D – Barnstable, Dukes and Nantucket)

Dylan Fernandes is a fourth generation Falmouth resident who grew up in Woods Hole. A firm believer in strong progressive leadership, he served as Maura Healey’s political director, managing her statewide field staff and new media teams on her 2014 campaign. Most recently, Dylan worked as digital director in the Attorney General’s Office. There, he launched innovative advocacy campaigns supporting LGBT rights by partnering with the Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, Hollywood celebrities and LGBTQ organizations from across the state to create the nationally recognized “Everyone Welcome” campaign supporting the transgender anti-discrimination bill.
Don’t Forget: Primary Day is Thursday, Sept. 8th!
Image Credit: Dronethusiast.com

MassEquality is committed to helping pro-equality candidates wins seats in both the House and and Senate. The Commonwealth needs more elected officials that are willing to make championing LGBTQ rights a priority.

Below is our list of candidates that will be on the ballot for the primary on Thursday, September 8th.

Newcomers Running for State Senate

Julian Cyr – Cape and Islands District
Primary Opponent: Sheila Lyons

Nora Harrington – Norfolk, Bristol, and Plymouth District
Primary Opponent: Walter Timilty

Newcomers Running for State Representative

Natalie Higgins – 4th Worcester District
Primary Opponent: Richard M. Marchand

Jack Patrick Lewis – 7th Middlesex District
Primary Opponents: Phil Jack, Brett Walker

Juana Matias – 16th Essex District
Primary Opponent: Marcos Devers

Jen Migliore – 9th Essex District
Primary Opponent: Saritin Rizzuto

Senate and House Incumbents

Sen. Sonia Chang Diaz – 2nd Suffolk District
Primary Opponent: Roy Owens

Sen. Pat Jehlen – 2nd Middlesex District
Primary Opponent: Leland Cheung

Rep. Evandro Carvalho – 5th Suffolk District
Primary Opponent: Melinda Stewart

Rep. Marjorie Decker – 25th Middlesex District
Primary Opponent: Lesley R. Phillips

Rep. Danielle Gregoire – 4th Middlesex District
Primary Opponent: Michael H. Ossing

Rep. Liz Malia – 11th Suffolk District
Primary Opponent: Charles L. Clemons Jr.

Rep. Thomas Stanley – 9th Middlesex District
Primary Opponent: Stacey Tully

Rep. Tim Toomey – 26th Middlesex District
Primary Opponent: Michael Connolly

Don’t forget… The last day to register to vote in the Primary is August 19th!

Are you interested in supporting the work of the MassEquality PAC and electing pro-LGBTQ candidates to office? Click here to support the MassEquality PAC.

Would you like to volunteer to support a pro-equality candidate in your local area? Sign up with our Volunteer Team, and we’ll get you connected with a campaign near you!
MassEquality PAC Announces Next Round of 2016 Legislative Endorsements
The MassEquality PAC has officially announced its second round of endorsements for the 2016 Massachusetts legislative races.

First-time candidates endorsed by MassEquality PAC include:

Senate: Julian Cyr (Cape & Islands)
House: Jack Patrick Lewis (7^th Middlesex)
Juana Matias (16^th Essex)
Jen Migliore (9^th Essex)

“We are proud to endorse these first-time candidates in their races,” said MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH. “We are confident that they will stand out as champions of LGBTQ rights and fight to end discrimination and hate in the Commonwealth.”

Senate incumbent endorsees include:
Senator William Brownsberger (2^nd Suffolk & Middlesex)
Senator Harriette Chandler (1^st Worcester)

House incumbent endorsees include:
Representative Paul Brodeur (32^nd Middlesex)
Representative Robert DeLeo (19^th Suffolk)
Representative David Linsky (5^th Middlesex)
Representative Smitty Pignatelli (4^th Berkshire)
Representative John Scibak (2^nd Hampshire)
Representative Tom Stanley (9^th Middlesex)
Representative Tim Toomey (26^th Middlesex)

“These incumbents have proven themselves as effective and strong supporters of LGBTQ rights on Beacon Hill and in their districts,” Ms. Shields added. “We are pleased to endorse them in their re-election campaigns, and we look forward to continuing to work with them in the State House on issues of importance to the LGBTQ community.”

For more information about our endorsement process and criteria, please click here.
John Scibak, 2nd Hampshire

John Scibak (D – 2nd Hampshire)

John Scibak, a State Representative since 2002, is running for re-election in the 2nd Hampshire district. Throughout his time in his office, he has acted as an ally to women, immigrants and members of the LGBTQ community. He co-sponsored the bill that established the Massachusetts LGBT Aging Commission and a bill that provides cultural competency training for caregivers of LGBTQ seniors, as well as being a long-time supporter of the Transgender Anti-Discrimination bill. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse John Scibak in his re-election campaign.
Speaker Robert DeLeo, 19th Suffolk
Speaker Robert DeLeo (D – 19th Suffolk)

Robert DeLeo has been the Speaker of the House in Massachusetts since 2009, and has represented the 19th Suffolk District since 1991. Speaker DeLeo has worked to strengthen gun control laws, protect and empower victims of domestic violence, reduce economic and health care inequalities, advocate for people with disabilities, and improve services for military veterans. He has been vocal about his support for the LGBTQ community, and has supported key LGBTQ rights legislation such as the same-sex marriage law and the Transgender Anti-Discrimination bill. MassEquality PAC is proud to support Robert DeLeo in his re-election campaign.
Tom Stanley, 9th Middlesex
Tom Stanley (D – 9th Middlesex)

Tom Stanley is a Massachusetts State Representative and has represented the 9th Middlesex district since 2001. During his tenure as state representative, he has focused on issues such as housing and homelessness, supporting economic development, veteran services, fighting opioid addiction, supporting public education, sustainability, transportation, and arts and culture. He voted to protect same-sex marriage in 2004 and supported the Transgender Anti-Discrimination bill in 2016. With his voting record on the side of the LGBTQ community, MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse Tom Stanley in the upcoming election.
Smitty Pignatelli, 4th Berkshire
Smitty Pignatelli (D – 4th Berkshire)

Smitty Pignatelli, currently in his seventh term in the House of Representatives, is seeking reelection in the 4th Berkshire District this year. He serves as the Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts, and Cultural Development, as well as a member of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means, Joint Committee on Higher Education, House Committee on Ways and Means , and the the House Committee on Redistricting. Pignatelli has been a vocal LGBTQ advocate, especially with his co-sponsorship of a bill to end conversion therapy efforts here in Massachusetts. MassEquality PAC is glad to endorse Smitty Pignatelli in his run for reelection.
Paul Brodeur, 32nd Middlesex
Paul Brodeur (D – 32nd Middlesex)

Paul Brodeur has served in the MA House of Representatives since 2011. He currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy, and is a member of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means, the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing, the Joint Committee on Public Service and the House Committee on Ways and Means. He is a strong and proven advocate for LGBTQ rights and women’s issues, and he recently spoke on the House floor in support of the Transgender Anti-Discrimination bill. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse Rep. Brodeur in his re-election campaign.
William Brownsberger, 2nd Suffolk & Middlesex
William Brownsberger (D – 2nd Suffolk & Middlesex)

William Brownsberger, a senator since 2012, is running for re-election in the 2nd Suffolk & Middlesex district. He serves as the Chair of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary and Vice-Chair of the Senate Committee on Ethics. In addition, he is a member of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, Special Senate Committee to Improve Government, and serves on several joint committees and commissions. Along with his various roles in the Senate, Brownsberger has been a vocal proponent of the Transgender Anti-Discrimination bill. He has shown his commitment to the LGBTQ community’s and women’s rights through his support of key anti-discrimination legislation, including a petition for legislation relative to gender in hate crimes. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to endorse an advocate for equal rights, William Brownsberger, in his campaign for re-election.
Jen Migliore, 9th Essex
Jen Migliore (D – 9th Essex)

Jen Migliore, previously the District Representative for Congressman Seth Moulton, is running for State Representative in the 9th Essex District. Throughout her campaign she has shown commitment to her hometown of Saugus, and to improving education for all, protecting the environment, and finding a solution to the opioid crisis in Massachusetts. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to join Mass Alliance in endorsing Jen Migliore in her campaign.
Juana Matias (16th Essex)
Juana Matias (D – 16th Essex)

A long-time resident of Lawrence, Juana Matias is dedicated to creating positive change in her community. She served as an intern for Governor Deval Patrick, where she helped plan internal/external events and public relations matters. During her time as a social worker and as an immigration advocate, she represented unaccompanied minors and advocated for children who had suffered abuse and neglect. An advocate for an increase in the minimum wage and more accessibility in higher education, Juana will work towards the betterment of her community. MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse Juana in her election campaign.
Jack Patrick Lewis, 7th Middlesex
Jack Patrick Lewis (D – 7^th Middlesex)

Jack Patrick Lewis, candidate for State Representative from the 7th Middlesex district, has constantly shown his support for the LGBTQ community. An ordained minister in the Unitarian Universalist Church, Jack has been an advocate in his community for the rights of all. He is the Executive Director and founder of OUT MetroWest, an organization devoted to the well-being of LGBTQ youth. A member of the LGBTQ community himself, Jack knows the battles that still need to be fought for equality. MassEquality PAC is proud to join Massachusetts Peace Action and Mass Alliance in endorsing Jack in his election campaign.
Julian Cyr, Cape & Islands
Julian Cyr (D – Cape & Islands)

Candidate for State Senate from the Cape & Islands district, Julian Cyr has been devoted to LGBTQ issues for most of his life. He was the former chair and member of the Massachusetts Coalition on LGBTQ Youth and a Harm Reduction Counselor at the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod. Along with his commitment to supporting the LGBTQ community, Julian has experience in politics through an internship at the White House and successful grassroots re-election campaigns for Deval Patrick and President Barack Obama. MassEquality PAC is excited to join the National Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund in endorsing Julian Cyr in his Senatorial election campaign.
MassEquality PAC Announces 1st Round of Legislative Endorsements for 2016
The MassEquality PAC is pleased to announce its first round of endorsements for the 2016 legislative races.

First-time candidates endorsed by MassEquality PAC include:

Senate: Nora Harrington (Norfolk, Bristol & Plymouth)

House: Natalie Higgins (4^th Worcester)

“Both of these candidates are effective advocates and longtime supporters of the LGBTQ community,” said MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH. “Their experience and awareness of LGBTQ issues make them ideally suited to be influential advocates for the community on Beacon Hill.”

Senate incumbent endorsees include:

Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz (2^nd Suffolk)
Senator Cynthia Stone Creem (1^st Middlesex & Norfolk)
Senator Sal DiDomenico (Everett, Middlesex & Suffolk)
Senator Kenneth Donnelly (4^th Middlesex)
Senator Jamie Eldridge (Middlesex & Worcester)
Senator Linda Dorcena Forry (1^st Suffolk)
Senator Pat Jehlen (2^nd Middlesex)
Senator Eric Lesser (1^st Hampden & Hampshire)
Senator Jason Lewis (5^th Middlesex)
Senator Barbara L’Italien (2^nd Essex & Middlesex)
Senator Stan Rosenberg (Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester)

House incumbent endorsees include:

Representative Cory Atkins (14^th Middlesex)
Representative Christine Barber (34^th Middlesex)
Representative Evandro Carvalho (5^th Suffolk)
Representative Mike Day (31^st Middlesex)
Representative Marjorie Decker (25^th Middlesex)
Representative Denise Garlick (13^th Norfolk)
Representative Danielle Gregoire (4^th Middlesex)
Representative Kate Hogan (3^rd Middlesex)
Representative Kay Khan (11^th Middlesex)
Representative Liz Malia (11^th Suffolk)
Representative Jim O’Day (14^th Worcester)
Representative Sarah Peake (4^th Barnstable)
Representative Denise Provost (27^th Middlesex)
Representative Byron Rushing (9^th Suffolk)
Representative Paul Tucker (7^th Essex)

“Our endorsed incumbent candidates have a proven track record as champions of LGBTQ rights, and have consistently supported legislation that is vital to our community,” Ms. Shields added. “We are proud to endorse each of these candidates, and we look forward to working with them in the State House to ensure everyone in Massachusetts enjoys equality and justice.”

For more information about our endorsement process and criteria, please click here.
Stan Rosenberg, Hampshire, Franklin & Worcester
Stan Rosenberg (D – Hampshire, Franklin & Worcester)

Stan Rosenberg has represented towns in the counties of Hampshire, Franklin and Worcester in the Massachusetts Senate since 1991. One of five openly LGBTQ members of the legislature, Stan became the highest-ranking LGBTQ elected official with his appointment as the Senate Majority Leader in Jan. 2013, and was elected as Senate President in a unanimous vote in Jan. 2015. Stan has worked to promote inclusiveness and diversity in government, and was a leader in the 2003 fight to protect the right of same-sex marriage in the Commonwealth. A 1977 graduate of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Stan resides in Amherst with his partner, Bryon. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to endorse him in his re-election campaign.
Liz Malia, 11th Suffolk
Liz Malia (D – 11th Suffolk)

A resident of Jamaica Plain, Mass., Liz Malia has represented the 11th Suffolk district in the House of Representatives since 1998. Liz, one of five openly LGBT members of the Massachusetts legislature, co-founded the Bay State Gay and Lesbian Democrats in the 1980s. She chairs the Joint Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and has worked during her tenure to make community development processes more inclusive and transparent. Born in Endicott, N.Y., in 1949, Liz is a graduate of Boston College who attended the Women in Politics and Government program at UMass Boston. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse her campaign for re-election.
Cynthia Stone Creem, 1st Middlesex & Norfolk
Cynthia Stone Creem (D – 1st Middlesex & Norfolk)

Senator Cynthia Stone Creem, Assistant Majority Leader, has focused on crime and sentencing, education, environmental protections, and gun control throughout her Senate career. Her positions within the Senate include: Chair of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Rules and Senate Committee on Bills in the Third Reading, and Member of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary. She is a longtime advocate of LGBTQ rights, and co-sponsored the transgender anti-discrimination bill. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to endorse Senator Creem in her re-election campaign in the 1st Middlesex & Norfolk district.
Kenneth Donnelly, 4th Middlesex
Kenneth Donnelly (D – 4th Middlesex)

Senator Kenneth Donnelly is running for re-election this year in the 4th Middlesex district. During his time in office, he has served as Majority Whip, Vice Chair on the Joint Committee on Election Laws, and as a member of the Joint Committee on Public Service, Joint Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Joint Committee on Ways and Means, and Senate Committee on Ways and Means, among others. He has been previously endorsed by NARAL and Planned Parenthood, and MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse him in his re-election campaign.
Denise Garlick, 13th Norfolk
Denise Garlick (D – 13th Norfolk)

State Representative Denise Garlick is running for re-election this year in the 13th Norfolk district. A registered nurse, she cares deeply about issues of health. She has backed LGBTQ issues in the House through her support of increased funding for the LGBTQ Youth Commission and co-sponsorship of “An Act Relative to LGBT Awareness Training for Aging Services Providers”. Garlick’s position as Chair on the Joint Committee on Elder Affairs allows her to continue to work for the rights of the elderly in the LGBTQ community. MassEquality is proud to endorse her in her re-election campaign.
Jim O’Day, 14th Worcester
Jim O’Day (D – 14th Worcester)

State Representative Jim O’Day, a social worker for 24 years, has devoted much of his political career to advocating for children and families. He has been a great proponent of the rights of women, and has earned endorsements from NARAL and Planned Parenthood. O’Day is the co-sponsor of a bill that mandates comprehensive sex education in public schools. He is currently the chair of the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government as well as the Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Commission on LGBT Aging. MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse Representative O’Day in his re-election campaign for State Representative of the 14th Worcester District.
Kay Khan, 11th Middlesex
Kay Khan (D – 11th Middlesex)

State Representative Kay Khan has been a constant advocate for animal protection, women in the criminal justice system, education, and mental health as well as LGBTQ issues. She is the House Chair of the Joint Committee on Children, Families, and Persons with Disabilities, Founder and Co-Chair of the Mental Health Caucus, and Founder and Co-Chair of a task force on Women in the Criminal Justice System and Their Children. Khan is currently running for re-election in the 11th Middlesex district. She is also the lead sponsor of the conversion therapy ban bill, which would protect the mental and physical well-being of minors from sexual orientation and/or gender identity change efforts. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to endorse her re-election campaign.
Sal DiDomenico, Middlesex & Suffolk
Sal DiDomenico (D – Middlesex & Suffolk)

Senator Sal DiDomenico, Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and the Joint Committee on Ways and Means, has demonstrated his support for the LGBTQ community during his six years on Beacon Hill. He filed an amendment in 2015 to increase funding for the Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth, and was a co-sponsor of the recently passed transgender anti-discrimination bill. DiDomenico has served as senator since 2010, and was a member of the Everett Common Council from 2004 to 2010. He has also advocated for the rights of immigrants, people with disabilities, and women. One example of such advocacy is his co-sponsorship of a bill to mandate comprehensive sex education in schools in 2015. MassEquality PAC is excited to endorse his re-election campaign for Senator of the Middlesex & Suffolk district.
Linda Dorcena Forry, 1st Suffolk
Linda Dorcena Forry (D – 1st Suffolk)

Senator Linda Dorcena Forry is running for re-election this year in the 1st Suffolk district. She was elected Senator in 2013, and from 2005-2013 was State Representative for the Commonwealth’s 12th Suffolk District. During her time in the Senate, she has served as the Chair of the Joint Committee on Housing and the Senate Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs, as well as a member of the Joint Committee of Transportation, Joint Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Joint Committee on Health Care Financing, and the Joint Committee of Education. She marched in the 2015 Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade with Governor Charlie Baker and Mayor Marty Walsh to support OUTVETS, an organization dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of LGBTQ veterans. MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse her re-election campaign.
Byron Rushing, 9th Suffolk
Byron Rushing (D – 9th Suffolk)

Representative Byron Rushing, member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives since 1982, is seeking re-election this year in the 9th Suffolk District. He is currently a member of the Joint committee on Rules, the House Committee on Rules, and the House Committee on Ethics. Throughout his time in office, Rushing has constantly shown his support of and dedication to LGBTQ issues. He was an original sponsor of the Gay Rights bill, chief sponsor of the law to end discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in public schools, lead sponsor of the 2012 Transgender Equal Rights law, and co-sponsor of the recently passed transgender anti-discrimination bill. In addition to his work on behalf of the LGBTQ community, he has been an advocate for women’s reproductive health choices and a leader of the anti-apartheid effort. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to support him in his re-election campaign.
Sarah Peake, 4th Barnstable
Sarah Peake (D – 4th Barnstable)

Representative Sarah Peake, one of five openly LGBTQ members of the Massachusetts General Court, is seeking re-election this year in the 4th Barnstable District. She has served as State Representative for nine years, and currently serves as the Chair of the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government. Endorsed by both NARAL and Planned Parenthood, Peake has shown her commitment to a woman’s right to choose. The lead sponsor on legislation that created the Massachusetts Commission on LGBT Aging and co-sponsor of a bill that would require insurance coverage for the treatments of debilitating side effects of HIV medication, Peake is truly an advocate for LGBTQ issues. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to endorse her re-election campaign.
Kate Hogan, 3rd Middlesex
Kate Hogan (D – 3rd Middlesex)

Representative Kate Hogan, one of the five openly LGBT members of the Massachusetts General Court, is running for re-election in the 3rd Middlesex District. She was elected to public office in 2009, and now serves as the Chair of the Joint Committee on Public Health. In the past, she has shown her commitment to LGBTQ and women’s issues by co-sponsoring “An Act Relative to Gender Based Discrimination and Hate Crimes” and voting to pass a bill that protects public access to reproductive health care facilities. Two of Hogan’s previous campaigns were supported by the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, and she has also been endorsed by NARAL and Planned Parenthood. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse her re-election campaign.
Paul Tucker, 7th Essex
Paul Tucker (D – 7th Essex)

Representative Paul Tucker, a former Salem police chief, is seeking re-election in the 7th Essex district. He served on the joint committees on the Judiciary, Education, Public Health, and Public Safety and Homeland Security. He was named an ally by Planned Parenthood for 2016, and has been actively working with the LGBTQ community. Tucker will be a panelist at Making Our Cities and Towns More Welcoming for LGBT People at this year’s North Shore Pride. His support and defense of the recently passed transgender anti-discrimination bill demonstrates his commitment to LGBTQ issues. MassEquality PAC is proud to support him in his re-election campaign.
Natalie Higgins, 4th Worcester
Natalie Higgins (D – 4th Worcester)

Natalie Higgins, a lifelong Leominster resident, is running for State Representative of the 4th Worcester District. After graduating from UMass Amherst with degrees in political science and Spanish, Natalie attended Northeastern University School of Law, worked in the former Governor Patrick’s office, and now serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors after years of service at Pathways for Change, a Worcester-based rape crisis center. She is also the Executive Director of PHENOM, the Public Higher Education Network of Massachusetts, where she advocates for better funded, affordable and accessible public higher education. As a supporter of LGBTQ rights, Natalie has pledged to fight for LGBTQ equality on Beacon Hill and has experience advocating for many vulnerable groups in the community, including elders, people living with HIV/AIDS, and survivors of sexual/domestic violence. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to endorse Natalie in her campaign in the 4th Worcester District.
Nora Harrington, Norfolk, Bristol & Plymouth
Nora Harrington (D – Norfolk, Bristol & Plymouth)

Nora Harrington is running this year to be State Senator for Norfolk, Bristol, and Plymouth. Nora grew up in the Bronx as the daughter of Irish immigrants. She studied Economics at Williams College in Massachusetts, and then went on to get her Master’s degree in Theology from the Episcopal Divinity School. She currently lives in Milton with her partner Andrea, their two kids and dogs, and she has been dedicating her career to social justice and helping others. She has worked for social service agencies in Boston and has raised funds in support of affordable housing, prevent HIV, help the elderly, and protect women and children from domestic violence. She states that she is the only candidate who will fight for economic justice, educational opportunities, LGBT rights, and women’s reproductive rights. In her campaign, she promises to focus on making education a top priority, working on the addiction crisis, and to protect the rights of women, LGBT people, and all people who face discrimination and lack access to certain rights and protections. With a dedication to social change and protecting the rights of others, MassEquality PAC is pleased to support Nora Harrington in her campaign for State Senate.
Christine Barber, 34th Middlesex
Christine Barber (D – 34th Middlesex)

Christine Barber has served as State Representative of the 34th Middlesex District since 2014. Before working as State Rep, she was involved in local community projects preserve affordable housing, making healthcare more affordable, extending the green line and keeping the Mystic River clean. During her time as State Rep, she has sponsored and co-sponsored bills for equal access to housing, equal rights for those with disabilities, ending conversion therapy for minors, sexual education, addiction treatment, pay equity and many others. She mainly focuses on making housing and healthcare more accessible, along with focusing on the needs of those with disabilities. She has advocated for the LGBT community through supporting and co-sponsoring bills against discrimination. MassEquality PAC is more than happy to endorse Representative Barber in her campaign for re-election.
Danielle Gregoire, 4th Middlesex
Danielle Gregoire (D – 4th Middlesex)

Danielle Gregoire has served as the State Representative for the 4th Middlesex district for a total of three terms. During her time in the State House, Danielle has been an advocate for disability rights, education, and women’s rights. Key legislation that Danielle co-sponsored includes a bill banning conversion therapy for minors, and a bill extending public accommodations protections to transgender people, among others supporting progressive issues. MassEquality PAC is happy to endorse Danielle in her campaign for re-election.
Cory Atkins, 14th Middlesex
Cory Atkins (D – 14th Middlesex)

Cory Atkins has served as the State Representative of the 14th Middlesex District since 1999, representing Concord, Acton, Carlisle, and Chelmsford. Throughout her time in the House, Cory has championed LGBTQ rights in addition to women’s rights and education. Recently, she has advocated for LGBTQ cultural competency training for aging services providers and for extended public accommodations protections for transgender people. As the mother-in-law of a transgender man, Cory has acted as a strong supporter of transgender anti-discrimination legislation and frequently speaks out to defend transgender civil rights. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to endorse Cory, a longtime champion, in her campaign for reelection.
Jamie Eldridge, Middlesex & Worcester
Jamie Eldridge (D – Middlesex & Worcester)

Jamie Eldridge has represented the Middlesex & Worcester District as State Senator since 2009, previously serving as the State Representative for the 37th Middlesex District. A strong supporter of LGBTQ equality, he was proud to be one of the leaders of the legislative team that helped defeat the anti-gay constitutional amendments and protected marriage equality in the Commonwealth. Additionally, he has been an advocate for both the transgender anti-discrimination bill of 2011 and the public accommodations bill of 2016. MassEquality PAC is happy to endorse a longtime LGBTQ champion in his campaign for re-election in Middlesex & Worcester.
BREAKING: Massachusetts Makes History Again
Contact: Michael Givens
Communications Manager
617-878-2316 (o)
857-244-0218 (m)
mike@massequality.org
Twitter: @massequalitypac
Facebook: facebook.com/MassEquality

Massachusetts Makes History Again

MassEquality celebrates historic LGBTQ victories

NOVEMBER 4, 2014 — BOSTON — Nineteen of the 23 candidates endorsed by the MassEquality PAC successfully won their seats, including Maura Healey for Attorney General. The MassEquality PAC was the first organization to endorse in the Attorney General’s race. MassEquality Executive Director Kara Coredini issued the following statement in response:

“This election offered historic victories for LGBTQ equality. Up and down the ballot, statewide and locally, voters chose pro-LGBTQ champions. There are still so many issues to address for the LGBTQ community, from elders aging into isolation, to youth forced into homelessness, to basic nondiscrimination protections for transgender people. We are pleased that voters have chosen champions who have already proven that they will work to address these needs in our Commonwealth.

“We are thrilled with the election of Maura Healey for Attorney General, who will make history when she takes office as the country’s first openly gay state attorney general. Maura’s leadership on LGBTQ issues has improved our Commonwealth and our country, and MassEquality looks forward to continuing to work with her to continue the Commonwealth’s national leadership on LGBTQ issues.

“Although our long-time and uniquely accomplished partner on LGBTQ issues, Martha Coakley, did not win the race for governor, the success of pro-LGBTQ champions up and down the ballot sends a clear message that Massachusetts continues its national leadership on LGBTQ issues. We congratulate Governor-Elect Charlie Baker on his victory, and we look forward to working with his administration to meet that mandate.

“We elected 19 of our endorsed pro-LGBTQ champions to Beacon Hill. In doing so, we won five open seats, and re-elected 13 champion incumbents. These champions will be essential to advancing our 2015-2017 agenda of supporting homeless LGBTQ youth, ensuring LGBTQ elders may age with dignity, and finishing the job of ensuring basic nondiscrimination protections for transgender individuals by securing public accommodations protections.”

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The MassEquality PAC stands with, develops, and elects candidates who outspokenly champion justice and equality for all LGBTQ people across Massachusetts. Since 2004, the PAC has consistently researched, interviewed and endorsed pro-equality candidates for both state and local offices. The six-member board works tirelessly to ensure that these candidates have the platforms to advocate for equality for all members of the LGBTQ community.