The month of June is a time to recognize and celebrate the great diversity and accomplishments of LGBTQ+ community. Pride month is also a time to recommit ourselves to fighting for equality and justice at home and around the world.
Last December, my partner and I had the honor to witness President Joe Biden sign into law the landmark Respect for Marriage Act. Because of federal protections, Micheal and I are able to get married. As a proud Armenian American and an openly gay public servant, I am committed to building an inclusive society that promotes tolerance, acceptance, and respect toward all.
Throughout my career, I have fought for marriage equality, access to affordable HIV medicines to reduce health disparities, and to repeal discriminatory policies and laws that target members of the LGBTQ+ community. These include travel and immigration bans, criminalization, and FDA’s restrictions on blood donations. Almost 3 decades after the FDA ban on blood donations for gay and bisexual men was enacted, I am proud to have played a role in ensuring people like me can now donate blood.
With increased threats and discriminatory legislation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, families, teachers, and service providers in Los Angeles and across the country, we need more LGBTQ+ lawmakers elected to Congress to continue the fight for equality and progress. If elected to represent CA-30, I will continue to fight for additional federal non‑discrimination protections and resources for LGBTQ+ Americans seeking healthcare, housing, and education.
From my family to yours, a very happy pride!
Dr. Jirair Ratevosian
LeadingWithPride
RepresentationMatters
CA30
