MassEquality PAC News
- 2025 Municipal Candidate Questionnaire’s are now Available
The endorsement survey has been released. if you are interested in getting endorsed as a pro-equality candidate, Visit us at
- 2024 Endorsement Surveys Are Now Available
2024 Endorsement Surveys are now available and our endorsement process is open. To find out more about our endorsement process and download your survey, please visit our 2024 Endorsement page here.
- Happy Election Day!
Don’t forget to come out and vote for our endorsed candidates! Equality is on the ballot!
Candidate Seat District Maura Healey Governor Statewide Kim Driscoll Lt. Governor Statewide Andrea Campbell Attorney General Statewide Diana DiZoglio Auditor Statewide Kim Driscoll Lt. Governor Statewide Julian Cyr State Senate Cape and Islands Jake Olivera State Senate Hampden, Hampshire and Worcester Jo Comerford State Senate Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester Becca Rausch State Senate Norfolk, Bristol and Middlesex Sam Montano House of Representatives 15th Suffolk David LeBoeuf House of Representatives 17th Worcester Tram Nguyen House of Representatives 18th Essex Pavel Payano House of Representatives 1st Essex Teresa English House of Representatives 22nd Middlesex Carol Doherty House of Representatives 3rd Bristol Sarah Peake House of Representatives 4th Barnstable Natalie Higgins House of Representatives 4th Worcester Manny Cruz House of Representatives 7th Essex 
- 2022 Endorsement Survey is live!
If you’re interested in becoming endorsed by MassEquality, please visit our 2022 Endorsement Information Page. Once we’ve received your application, we will reach out to schedule an interview.
- MassEquality to Endorse Sarah Peake for 4th Barnstable
Worcester, MA: MassEquality PAC, the political arm of the leading grassroots advocacy organization for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community in Massachusetts, announced today its endorsement announced today, it’s endorsement of Sarah Peake for State Representative, in the 4th Barnstable District.
“Representative Peake’s proven leadership is exactly what we need, at a time where both the LGBTQ community and our values are being attacked. said Tanya Neslusan, Executive Director of MassEquality, “We have no doubt that under her leadership, Massachusetts will continue to be a leader in the fight for LGBTQ rights, universal healthcare, immigrant rights, reproductive rights, and environmental justice.”
“Whether it’s preserving the rights of gay marriage, prohibiting discrimination against our transgender brothers and sisters in public accommodations, creating the LGBTQ+ Aging Commission, banning conversion therapy in the Commonwealth, or mandating that lipodystrophy therapies that address and treat the physical side effects of early HIV drugs are covered by both MassHealth and private insurers, I remain committed to safeguarding the rights we have and fighting for the civil rights that are needed,” said State Representative Sarah Peake (D-Provincetown) “I am grateful and proud to receive the endorsement of Mass Equality, an organization that understands the importance of grassroots advocacy work to ensure our civil rights are defended.”
Representative Peake has worked extensively as the lead sponsor on legislation that created the Massachusetts Commission on LGBT Aging and co-sponsor the ban on conversion therapy, and more recently, the Healthy Youth Act, legislation to expand HIV Prevention Access for young adults, and the Gender X bill, Peake is truly an advocate for LGBTQ issues. MassEquality PAC is thrilled to endorse her re-election campaign.
- MassEquality Political Action Committee Endorses Maura Healey for Governor
Worcester ─ MassEquality PAC, the political arm of the leading grassroots advocacy organization for the LGBTQ+ community in Massachusetts, announced today its endorsement for Maura Healey in her bid to become the state’s next Governor.
“Maura Healey’s executive experience, coupled with her commitment to civil rights make her the best choice to be our next Governor,” said Tanya Neslusan, Executive Director of MassEquality. “We are as proud to stand behind her today, as we were in 2014, during her first bid for attorney general”
She is a nationally known leader, best known for her commitment to civil rights and community engagement. She understands the issues and she understands what it means to govern.
“We cannot underestimate the importance of LGBTQ voices in government, especially at this moment in history when we are seeing so many attacks on our community,” continued Neslusan. “We feel that having someone in the executive branch who truly understands the importance of the issues that face our community at both the state and federal levels is critical in order for Massachusetts to remain a national leader.”
Healey’s extensive record as a leader for the entire LGBTQ community includes leading the Commonwealth’s landmark challenge to the Defense of Marriage Act, and leading the winning argument of the nation’s first lawsuit striking it down. She was also instrumental in securing statewide non-discrimination protections for transgender people in public accomodations, employment, housing, education, credit and hate crimes. Beyond that she’s led a series of multistate briefs defending the constitutionality of state anti-discrimation laws in cases involving businesses that discriminate against LGBTQ+ couples,and led a coalition of states in blocking the Trump administration’s discriminatory ban on transgender military service.
“I’m proud to receive the endorsement of MassEquality. They have been a strong partner over the years in our work to make sure that everyone can be their authentic self and live free from discrimination in Massachusetts.” said Healey. “I look forward to continuing to build on this progress to support our LGBTQ+ community and ensure that Massachusetts remains a leader on equality”
If elected, Maura Healey will serve as not just the first woman governor, but also the first lesbian governor of the Commonwealth.
- MassEquality PAC Congratulates 2020 Endorsees
Following a successful election night and months of impressive campaigning from candidates bravely championing equality, the MassEquality PAC honored its endorsees for all their hard work and successes. In 2020, we had the privilege of standing with some incredible candidates: Samuel Biagetti, Christine Crean, Christina Eckert, Natalie Higgins, Becca Rausch, Tram Nguyen, and Meg Wheeler. Voters of the Commonwealth rewarded three of our candidates – Rep Higgins, Rep Nguyen, and Sen Rausch – for their impressive records of championing LGBTQ equality and voted them back into office. Our other endorsees also ran bold campaigns that challenged the status quo, taking on powerful incumbents and helping to shift the conversation on LGBTQ issues in their respective districts.
We thank all of our endorsees for their invaluable contributions to Massachusetts political discourse and for campaigns that inspired our community to dream.
- Massachusetts Votes for Fairness and Equality
Election Night 2018 Brings Victory for LGBTQ Champions in Massachusetts
Among the gains in the 2018 mid-term elections on November 6th, a majority of the candidates endorsed by the MassEquality PAC won their races, increasing the number of pro-LGBTQ legislators in the State House.Our winning challengers for 2018 are Jo Comerford, Mindy Domb, Tami Gouveia, Kathy LaNatra, David LeBoeuf, Christina Minicucci, Tram Nguyen, Becca Rausch and Maria Robinson.
Endorsed incumbents who won their races are Sen. Julian Cyr, Rep. Mike Connolly, Rep. Marjorie Decker, Sen. Jamie Eldridge, Attorney General Maura Healey, Rep. Natalie Higgins, Rep. Jack Lewis, Sen. Jason Lewis and Rep. Liz Malia.
In a statement released on Wednesday, MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields said, “MassEquality is proud of all of our endorsed candidates in Tuesday’s election, and we congratulate the winners on their victories. Each one ran their campaign on the principles of fairness and equality, and the election results demonstrate overwhelming support for these values among Massachusetts voters.”
The Massachusetts LGBTQ community scored some major victories with MassEquality’s endorsed candidates. Among these wins are Tram Nguyen’s defeat of anti-LGBTQ Rep. Jim Lyons, Rep. Natalie Higgins win in a tough re-election race in a conservative district, and openly LGBTQ incumbents Attorney General Maura Healey, Sen. Julian Cyr, Rep. Jack Lewis and Rep. Liz Malia winning their races by strong margins. We’re also pleased to welcome Jo Comerford as the latest openly LGBTQ state Senator in Massachusetts.
MassEquality looks forward to working with the winning candidates during the upcoming legislative session. These electoral victories, along with the historic vote on Question 3 to uphold transgender nondiscrimination protections, are proof that Massachusetts supports fairness, justice and equality for all.
- David LeBoeuf – 17th Worcester
David LeBoeuf Campaign Web Site
David LeBoeuf is a lifelong Worcester resident who has served his city and community by working in city government and leading community-based initiatives to increase civic engagement and improve people’s lives and health. He is also an advocate for survivors of domestic violence, and has been involved in various community development activities. He is a proven progressive and an effective community organizer who believes in equality and justice for all, and he will bring those values with him to Beacon Hill. The MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse David in his race for state Representative. - Sarah Hewins – 2nd Plymouth
Sarah Hewins Campaign Web Site
Sarah Hewins has a long history of public service, having been elected to the Carver Board of Selectmen four times and served on the town Planning Board for 10 years. A local business owner who is active in her community, Sarah has successfully fought to preserve the local environment and support conservation efforts in her role as Conservation Agent. She is well known as an advocate for children, seniors, working families and public education. She believes strongly in fairness and equality for all, and will carry those values forward on Beacon Hill. The MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse Sarah in her race for state Representative. - Christina Minicucci – 14th Essex
Christina Minicucci Campaign Web Site
Christina Minicucci is dedicated to serving her community. A businesswoman, active volunteer and member of several town committees in North Andover, Christina is a tireless advocate for the people of her town and the Merrimack Valley area. Her progressive values and history of support for fair and equal treatment for all indicate that she will be a strong champion for LGBTQ rights in the State House. The MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse Christina for state Representative. - Jack Stanton – 5th Barnstable
Jack Stanton Campaign Web Site
A Democrat running for state Representative, Jack Stanton has a long-standing interest in politics and international development. His interests led him to study and work abroad for several years until the call to serve his home community by running for office brought him back to Sandwich, MA. Jack’s strong local ties plus global work experience and perspective inform his values and make him a strong advocate for fairness and equality. The MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse Jack, and we know that he will be a dedicated champion for the LGBTQ community on Beacon Hill. - Kathy LaNatra – 12th Plymouth
Kathy LaNatra Campaign Web Site
Kathy LaNatra is dedicated to helping the people of her district. A small business owner and community leader, Kathy has served on her town’s Board of Selectmen, as Recreation Commissioner, and in many other elected and volunteer positions. Her experiences in local government have made her keenly aware of the issues facing the district and the Commonwealth. She will be a strong advocate for fairness and equality on Beacon Hill, and the MassEquality PAC is pleased to announce our endorsement of her campaign. - Dr. Katie McBrine – Plymouth and Norfolk
Dr. Katie McBrine’s Campaign Web Site
Dr. Katie McBrine is dedicated to applying her experience in public health and medicine and her progressive values to improving the lives of people in her district and across the Commonwealth. An engaged community leader, health educator and concerned citizen, Dr. McBrine actively advocates for equality and civil rights for all. She has been a proud and outspoken champion of LGBTQ rights in her community, and will continue to support the LGBTQ community on Beacon Hill. The MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse Dr. McBrine for state Senator. - Chris Tribou – 22nd Middlesex
Chris Tribou Campaign Web Site
Chris Tribou is an engaged and dedicated community leader, with experience serving as a Town Meeting representative and member of Billerica’s local Planning Board and other town committees. His leadership experience, knowledge of local issues, strong values and dedication to fairness and equality for all make him an excellent choice to represent his district on Beacon Hill. Chris stands against injustice, and will fight for the LGBTQ community in the State House. The MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse his campaign for Representative of the 22nd Middlesex district. - MassEquality Statement on the Results of the 2018 Massachusetts Primary Election
The MassEquality PAC celebrates Tuesday’s primary wins by its endorsed candidates, including two openly LGBTQ people. The PAC’s winners include first-time contenders Jo Comerford, Mindy Domb, Tami Gouveia, Becca Rausch and Maria Robinson as well as incumbents Sen. Jason Lewis, Rep. Marjorie Decker and Rep. Liz Malia. MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH issued the following statement in response:
“We are very proud of all of our endorsed candidates in Tuesday’s primary election, and we congratulate the winners on their victories. Each one ran a strong campaign on platforms rooted in fairness and equality, and the election results demonstrate overwhelming support for these values among voters. Not only do we have the inspiring success of Ayanna Pressley, the first black woman ever elected to Congress from Massachusetts, we have a wealth of new progressive women making their way to the State House.
“Even as we celebrate these victories along with our endorsed candidates, we are preparing for November’s general election, when our endorsees will face challengers, some of whom strongly oppose LGBTQ rights. We are also working hard alongside our partners in the Yes on 3 Campaign to defend the current law protecting our transgender friends and neighbors from discrimination in public spaces. 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 in November.”
The MassEquality PAC will announce further endorsements in the coming weeks for the general election on November 6th. For more information about our endorsed candidates, and to volunteer to support LGBTQ champions in their election campaigns, visit http://www.MassEqualityPAC.org.
- Marie McCourt – 2nd Hampshire
Marie McCourt Campaign Web Site
A dedicated community activist, Marie McCourt has been an advocate since her early twenties. She has been involved with several organizations that serve struggling families in her district, and was elected to the Granby School Committee for two terms, and served as chair of the Democratic Town Committee for 5 years. Marie’s experiences with community service fueled her interest in advocacy and politics. Trained as an educator, Marie is committed to working for the under-served, the at-risk, and the most vulnerable people in her district and across the Commonwealth. MassEquality PAC is excited to endorse her campaign. - MassEquality PAC Announces Fourth Round of 2018 Legislative EndorsementsOn August 24, 2018, the MassEquality PAC announced its fourth round of endorsements for the 2018 Massachusetts legislative races.
First-time candidates for state Representative endorsed by MassEquality PAC in this round include:
- Matthew Crescenzo (9th Essex)
- Mindy Domb (3rd Hampshire)
- Tami Gouveia (14th Middlesex)
- Allison Gustavson (4th Essex)
- Kevin Higgins (7th Plymouth)
- Maria Robinson – Write-in candidate (6th Middlesex)
The PAC has also endorsed John Drinkwater, who is running for former state Senator Eileen Donoghue’s seat in the 1st Middlesex district.
“We’re proud to support these outstanding champions of LGBTQ rights in their races,” said MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH. “We look forward to working with these dedicated and effective advocates in the State House.”
MassEquality PAC has also endorsed the following incumbent state Representatives in their re-election campaigns:
- Mike Connolly (26th Middlesex)
- Marjorie Decker (25th Middlesex)
- Natalie Higgins (4th Worcester)
- Byron Rushing (9th Suffolk)
“These incumbent candidates have a long and well-established record of supporting LGBTQ rights,” Ms. Shields added. “We are pleased to endorse them for re-election, and look forward to continuing our work with them on legislation vital to our community.”
In addition, the PAC has endorsed Boston City Councilor Josh Zakim for Secretary of State. “Josh Zakim’s commitment to progressive values ensures that he will be a great champion of equality and fairness in the Commonwealth as Secretary of State,” Shields commented.
For more information on the candidates and the MassEquality PAC endorsement process, please visit www.massequalitypac.org.
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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.
- John Drinkwater – 1st Middlesex
John Drinkwater Campaign Web Site
John Drinkwater is a Tewksbury native who is running for State Senate to advocate for Massachusetts kids and the working people in his district. He has been the legislative director for the Massachusetts AFL-CIO since 2014, having worked for the union since he was an intern in 2006. John is focusing his campaign on combating the opiate crisis, increasing job training and apprenticeship programs, and improving public education by addressing school quality and making higher education more affordable. He is a strong supporter of LGBTQ rights, and led the charge at the AFL-CIO to endorse the Transgender Anti-Discrimination law. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse John in this race. - Kevin Higgins – 7th Plymouth
Kevin Higgins Campaign Web Site
Kevin Higgins is a committed public servant who has dedicated himself to advocacy, community outreach, and non-profit work. A young, progressive candidate for State Representative, he has advocated for senior citizens, people with disabilities, and working families living in the South Shore of Massachusetts throughout his career. Kevin is engaged with issues that impact the LGBTQ community, and is a strong supporter of LGBTQ rights and equality. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse Kevin’s campaign. - Mindy Domb – 3rd Hampshire
A progressive Democrat running for State Representative, Mindy Domb has lived in Amherst for 20 years and has dedicated her life to public service. Since 2013, she has served as the Executive Director of the Amherst Survival Center, which connects residents in Amherst and surrounding towns to food, clothing, healthcare, wellness, and assistance. Mindy directed a training program for health and human service providers to learn how to support LGBTQ youth. A co-founder of the Berkshire AIDS Coalition, she has also served as the Department of Public Health’s regional coordinator of its HIV testing program, and founded Massachusetts’ first jail-based HIV education program. She founded Make It Better Amherst in 2010, which is a social network of allies that formed in response to the suicide epidemic LGBTQ teens were facing. MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse Mindy in her campaign. - MassEquality Voter Guides: Endorsed Candidates and Voting While LGBTQ+
MassEquality has created two new voter guides to help members of the LGBTQ community navigate the voting system and to remind voters of our 2018 endorsed candidates. The MassEquality PAC Endorsements flyer is your reference guide to all of our endorsed LGBTQ champions, and the MassEquality Guide to Voting While LGBTQ+ provides important information about how Massachusetts’ voting laws affect LGBTQ people.We’ve added images and links to these flyers in the sidebar on this web site that you can click to download these guides (PDF files – Endorsement flyer is 2 pages) so you can take them with you when you go to vote.
Additional candidate endorsements will be announced as the election season continues, and the Endorsements flyer will be updated to reflect new candidate endorsements and the results of the Primaries on September 4th.
[Photo credit: Personalincome.org/vote CC-BY-2.0]
- Mike Connolly – 26th Middlesex
Mike Connolly Campaign Web Site
Mike Connolly is an attorney, a community organizer, and a strong progressive Democrat running for re-election as State Representative in Cambridge and Somerville. Mike supports investments in affordable housing, public transportation, early education, healthcare, after-school programs, and other critical services in his district and across the Commonwealth. He is also deeply engaged with issues related to economic justice, criminal justice reform, and fairness and equality for all. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse his re-election campaign. - Josh Zakim – Secretary of State
Josh Zakim is an attorney and community activist running for Massachusetts Secretary of State. He was elected to the Boston City Council in 2013, and currently serves as the chair of the City Council’s Committee on Civil Rights. During his first term on the Council, Josh created the Boston Trust Act, which worked on improving trust and cooperation between immigrant communities and law enforcement, and convened hearings to address the unique challenges that LGBTQ seniors face in finding affordable and welcoming housing. He has also advocated for easier access for voting registration, and after Trump was elected, he led the Council in passing a resolution in support of immigrants with Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Josh is currently a member of the Boston Ward 5 Democratic Committee, and a board member of the Lenny Zakim Fund. The MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse Josh in his campaign.
- Matthew Crescenzo – 9th Essex
Matthew Crescenzo Campaign Web Site
A Democrat running for State Representative of the 9th Essex District, Matt attended Salem State University after serving in the military. He joined the Army after high school, and was stationed in South Korea. Later in his military career, he was deployed to Afghanistan, where he worked as a security officer to visiting dignitaries and high-ranking Army leadership. Matt’s campaign focuses on creating a living wage, combating the opioid epidemic, and creating equal opportunities for all. MassEquality PAC is honored to endorse Matt’s candidacy for state Representative.
- Allison Gustavson – 4th Essex
Allison Gustavson Campaign Web Site
A Democrat running for State Representative, Allison is a former elementary school teacher whose training focused on international and multicultural education. She spent a year teaching sixth grade in Egypt, and returned to her community enriched by that experience. She has managed a commercial office building in Peabody for the last ten years. Allison is personally familiar with the impact of the recession on small businesses, and how struggles with health can be detrimental to a person’s livelihood. Allison serves on the Manchester Council on Aging, believing that when children and seniors have the opportunity to get together, both sides learn something from the experience. She is also the founder and leader of Essex County #6 Indivisible, an organization of concerned local citizens involved in creating positive change through grassroots political action. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse her for Representative of the 4th Essex district.
- Tami Gouveia – 14th Middlesex
Tami Gouveia Campaign Web Site
Tami Gouveia is a Democrat running for the 14th Middlesex State Representative seat. She has spent the past 15 years as a public health leader, working to protect people from addiction and the opioid crisis. Tami has served as the Director of Programs at the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, founded the Lowell Roundtable on Substance Abuse Prevention, and served as the Executive Director of Tobacco Free Mass. These jobs have given her opportunities to collaborate with parents, youth, local leaders and business leaders, and workers to create a healthier, more fair place for the people of Massachusetts. In 2016, she made history by founding the Massachusetts Chapter of the Women’s March on Washington. Tami currently works as the Project Director at Rethink Health/The Rippel Foundation. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse Tami in her race.
- Maria Robinson – 6th Middlesex
Maria Robinson Campaign Web Site
Maria Robinson is a Democrat running for State Representative in the 6th Middlesex District. She is an advocate for clean energy, and has helped state policymakers and public officials address climate change. She also serves on the board of the Framingham Public Library Foundation and is a member of the Framingham Democratic Town Committee. Maria has taken a public stand for LGBTQ rights in her platform, including her support of the Yes on 3 campaign to maintain Massachusetts’ transgender anti-discrimination law. Maria is the mother of two children adopted from foster care, which has taught her the importance of advocating for families and for creating safe environments for children to learn and grow. MassEquality PAC is excited to endorse Maria in her write-in campaign.
- Jeffrey Sánchez – 15th Suffolk
Jeffrey Sánchez Campaign Web SiteRepresentative Jeffrey Sánchez has served his district since 2002, working in support of affordable housing, accessible health care, public education, elderly services, and LGBTQ rights. He was born in Boston and raised in public housing on Mission Hill by his mother, an avid activist. Sánchez’s background and experience in city services and community-level action make him a strong advocate for everyone in his district. MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse his re-election campaign.
- MassEquality PAC Announces 3rd Round of 2018 Legislative Endorsements
On August 1, 2018, the MassEquality PAC announced its third round of endorsements for the 2018 Massachusetts legislative races.First-time candidates for state Senate endorsed by MassEquality PAC in this round include:
- Jo Comerford (Hampshire, Franklin & Worcester)
- Becca Rausch (Norfolk, Bristol & Middlesex)
- Amaad Rivera (Hampden)
“We’re proud to endorse all three of these challengers in their state Senate races,” said MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH. “Becca Rausch is a dedicated, progressive community leader, and Jo and Amaad are open and proud members of the LGBTQ community. We know they will be strong champions of LGBTQ rights on Beacon Hill.”
MassEquality PAC has also endorsed incumbent state Representatives Liz Malia (11th Suffolk) and Jeffrey Sánchez (15th Suffolk) in their re-election campaigns.
“These incumbent candidates have a long and well-established record of supporting LGBTQ rights,” Ms. Shields added. “We are pleased to endorse them for re-election, and look forward to continuing our work with them in the State House.”
For more information on the candidates and the MassEquality PAC endorsement process, please visit our Endorsement Information page.
- Jo Comerford – Hampshire, Franklin & Worcester
Jo Comerford Campaign Web SiteAn experienced advocate on the local, state, and national levels, Jo Comerford has a long history of engagement with progressive issues. Most recently, she has worked as a Campaign Director for MoveOn, and previously served on the executive staff of several regional advocacy and aid organizations, including Western Massachusetts American Friends Service Committee and The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. As an openly lesbian candidate, Jo has taken strong public stands on LGBTQ rights issues, including transgender equality and ending conversion therapy. The MassEquality PAC is excited to endorse Jo as a write-in candidate for Senator.
- Becca Rausch – Norfolk, Bristol & Middlesex
Becca Rausch Campaign Web SiteAn attorney in both the public and private sectors, educator, union steward, community leader and Needham Town Meeting Member, Becca Rausch has a long history of leadership and advocacy. Becca has made a life-long commitment to fighting for social justice, including LGBTQ rights. Her platform includes protecting transgender equality, among other civil rights and progressive issues. Becca has both the skills and experience to be a strong champion for equality on Beacon Hill. The MassEquality PAC is pleased to endorse her election campaign.
- Amaad Rivera – Hampden
Amaad Rivera Campaign Web SiteThe first openly gay Springfield City Council member and former Policy Advisor to U.S. Senator Ed Markey, Amaad Rivera has an impressive record of advocacy and political action. Born and raised in Springfield, MA, he has devoted his career to fighting for progressive public policies and advocating on behalf of his city and region. Amaad has also been a strong and vocal champion for LGBTQ equality throughout his career. The MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse Amaad in his campaign.
- MassEquality PAC Announces 2nd Round of 2018 Legislative EndorsementsOn July 11, 2018, the MassEquality PAC announced its second round of endorsements for the 2018 Massachusetts legislative races.
First-time candidates for state Representative endorsed by MassEquality PAC in this round include:
The PAC also endorses Sue Chalifoux Zephir (Worcester & Middlesex) for state Senate, as it did in the special election for this seat in December.
“All three of these candidates are well known as advocates for LGBTQ rights, with a strong record of supporting equality and fairness for all,” said MassEquality Executive Director Deborah Shields, JD, MPH. “Both Sue and Tanya are challenging incumbents who are well-known for their anti-LGBTQ positions, and Tanya is a proud member of the LGBTQ community. We are pleased to support these candidates in their races.”
MassEquality PAC is also proud to endorse two additional incumbent candidates:
“Our latest endorsed incumbent candidates are deeply committed to the fight for equality and justice,” Ms. Shields added. “We cannot overstate the importance of the work both Maura Healey and Jason Lewis have done to defend LGBTQ rights in Massachusetts. We are honored to endorse them for re-election, and look forward to continue working side by side with them on issues vital to our community.”
- Maura Healey – Massachusetts Attorney General
Maura Healey Campaign Web SiteMaura Healey has served as Massachusetts Attorney General since January, 2015—one of many accomplishments in a long career dedicated to fighting for justice and equality. She is the first openly gay Attorney General in the United States, and proudly leads what she considers to be the “people’s law firm.” Maura’s game-changing contributions at the helm of two prominent divisions of the attorney general’s office — the Business & Labor and Public Protection & Advocacy Bureaus — helped make the office a state and national powerhouse.
- Healey was the architect of the of the Commonwealth’s landmark challenge to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), and led the winning argument of the nation’s first lawsuit striking it down. She and her team filed briefs in the Supreme Court marriage equality cases that declared DOMA unconstitutional and overturned California’s same-sex marriage ban.
- Maura and her team were instrumental in securing statewide non-discrimination protections in Massachusetts for transgender people in employment, housing, education, credit and hate crimes. More recently, her office’s popular #EveryoneWelcome social media campaign raised awareness and support for the law that protects transgender people in the Bay State from discrimination in public spaces.
- She has worked extensively to combat bullying in the Commonwealth’s schools, and to train law enforcement on best practices in preventing hate crimes.
MassEquality is proud to once again endorse Maura in her re-election campaign.
- Tanya Neslusan – 1st Hampden
Tanya Neslusan Campaign Web SiteA lifelong resident of Massachusetts, Tanya has focused her career on working in health insurance information technology. She has previously interned for Congressman Richard Neal and has also worked on several political campaigns. She currently serves as the President of the Sturbridge Regional Huddle, the Secretary of the Sturbridge Democratic Town Committee, and is a member of the Planning Committee for the Worcester Chapter of Showing Up for Racial Justice. As a member of the LGBTQ community, Tanya understands that the struggles of our community are far from over. MassEquality PAC is proud to endorse Tanya’s candidacy.
- Tram Nguyen – 18th Essex
A legal aid attorney and engaged advocate, Tram Nguyen is dedicated to fighting for the people of her district. She is currently a staff attorney with the Greater Boston Legal Service (GBLS) and is the project coordinator for the Civil Legal Aid for Victims of Crime (CLAVC) Project. She also previously worked for the Equal Justice Works Fellow in the Asian Outreach Unit, representing victims and survivors of domestic violence. Tram fights every day for the safety and well-being of her clients, and she plans to use these advocacy skills to fight to help all people and communities in Massachusetts. The MassEquality PAC is pleased to join Mass Alliance, Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund and other organizations in endorsing Tram.
- Sue Chalifoux Zephir – Worcester & Middlesex
Sue Chalifoux Zephir Campaign Web SiteSue Chalifoux Zephir is dedicated to serving the people of North Central Massachusetts. A Leominster City Councillor for eight years and a board member and trustee of several local organizations, as well as the Executive Director of a food pantry, Sue has a long career of community service and civic involvement. Through these experiences, she has gained valuable knowledge and insight into the issues that impact the people of her district. She is also an advocate and longtime supporter of the LGBTQ community. MassEquality is proud to endorse her in this race.
- MassEquality PAC Announces 1st Round of Endorsements in 2018 RacesToday, the MassEquality PAC announced its first round of endorsements for the 2018 legislative races.
First-time candidates endorsed by MassEquality PAC include:
“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:
- Senator Julian Cyr (Cape & Islands)
- Senator Jamie Eldridge (Middlesex & Worcester)
- Representative Jack Patrick Lewis (7th Middlesex)
“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 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 Campaign Web SiteGretchen 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 Select
man 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.
Sabrina Heisey Campaign Web Site
MassEquality PAC 