FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan 25, 2021
PHOENIX – Representative César Chávez, the newly elected Chair of the Arizona LGBTQ Legislative Caucus, congratulated President Joe Biden for overturning the previous administration's discriminatory ban on transgender people serving in the military. President Biden directed Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin earlier today to prohibit the military from discriminating against military members based on gender identity. Chávez, who co-founded the LGBTQ Caucus in 2017, was elected its second Chair last week, taking over for Rep. Daniel Hernandez, Jr.
"Every American who is willing and able to serve and protect our country should be allowed to do so, it's that simple," said Chávez, D-Phoenix. "This is an important step back towards basic equality and human rights that also improves our national security and military readiness."
Chávez added, “Our caucus will continue to advocate for equitable opportunities within the LGBTQ community. Although we have had numerous victories in past legislative sessions, it is not enough to continue to fight against hindering policies. Instead, I hope that we can work together as a legislature to instill policies that benefit this population. We are looking forward to having a greater presence across the State of Arizona and to involve as many people as possible in the legislative process.”
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