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Sen. Laphonza Butler
Robert Braggs
Groundbreakers

Sen. Laphonza Butler

Meet one of the artists, disruptors, educators, groundbreakers, innovators, and storytellers who all helped make the world a better place for LGBTQ+ people.

“My work requires that I first and foremost represent all of California,” says U.S. Senator Laphonza Butler, the first Black lesbian to serve in the chamber. “Which means that I am listening to lots of constituents, policy experts, and advocates to deeply understand issues of importance.”

A longtime Golden State ally of Kamala Harris, Butler served as president of EMILY’s List and California's Service Employees International Union State Council prior to filling the late Dianne Feinstein’s seat, a 2023 appointment by Gov. Gavin Newson.

Butler labels “the doubt that creeps” as her most persistent obstacle this year. She’s also been busy getting work done, such as “bringing resources back to California” and being able to “engage young California leaders” in the political process.

“My message to the LGBTQ+ community would be, ‘Take a bow!’” she declares. “We’ve faced challenges, hate, and discrimination…and because we’ve stood with other communities — our allies, families, and neighbors — we have accomplished so much. While there is still much to do, every time we choose to do it together, we make progress.” @senlaphonza

Bernardo Sim

Bernardo Sim is the deputy editor of Out, as well as a writer and content creator. Born in Brazil, he currently lives in South Florida. You can follow him on Instagram at @bernardosim.

Bernardo Sim is the deputy editor of Out, as well as a writer and content creator. Born in Brazil, he currently lives in South Florida. You can follow him on Instagram at @bernardosim.

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The LGBTQ+ Olympians
Ankit RK Garg/Shutterstock

Mey Rude

Mey Rude is a journalist and cultural critic who has been covering queer news for a decade. The transgender, Latina lesbian lives in Los Angeles with her fiancée.

Mey Rude is a journalist and cultural critic who has been covering queer news for a decade. The transgender, Latina lesbian lives in Los Angeles with her fiancée.

Read Full Bio
Groundbreakers

The LGBTQ+ Olympians

Meet one of the artists, disruptors, educators, groundbreakers, innovators, and storytellers who all helped make the world a better place for LGBTQ+ people.

Ankit RK Garg/Shutterstock

Every four years, the world’s best athletes come together to compete and inspire at the Olympic Games. And victory for out Olympians doesn’t mean just medals; it signals freedom and possibility to the global LGBTQ+ community. This year, there were a record 199 out athletes competing at the Paris Olympics, with 43 medals won.

On Team USA, out athletes won medals in fencing, women’s rugby, BMX, canoe slalom, 100-meter dash, relay, women’s soccer, women’s volleyball, and women’s basketball. Ahead, these champions detail what victory means to them. —M.R.

LAUREN DOYLE

Women’s Rugby, Bronze

@lauren.doyle23

Alex Ho

“It brought me so much joy to know that the people of America got to see what our team was capable of. I think it is really important for America to see a team — that comes in all shapes, sizes, ethnicities, sexual orientations, etc. — work together to achieve the biggest goal possible.”

STEPH ROVETTI

Women’s Rugby, Bronze

@steph_rovetti

USA Rugby

“Bringing home a medal was more than just a personal achievement; it was a moment to show the world that LGBTQ+ athletes are here, we are strong, and we deserve to be seen.”

KRIS THOMAS

Women’s Rugby, Bronze

@kristhomas11

Kris Thomas

“We’ve thought a lot as a team about what it would mean to bring home a medal for our communities. As an LGBTQ+ American, I’m conscious of the huge role sports have played in societal acceptance and celebration of queer and trans people. It means the world to me and I hope that we’ve inspired our community.”

CHELSEA GRAY

Women’s Basketball, Gold

@cgray209

Adidas

“Bringing home a gold medal on the Olympic stage is the dream of a lifetime. And to say I’ve done it twice? It’s incredible and not something I take for granted. I know we hear it often, but representation really is so important. When I was growing up, I don’t remember seeing anyone that looked like me who also identified as LGBTQ+. I hope young people see me and realize that how they identify does not limit them. That you can sit in the middle of all these different intersections and still thrive and accomplish whatever you set your mind to.”

JEWELL LOYD

Women’s Basketball, Gold

@jewellloyd

Sage East/Getty Images

“Anytime you’re representing your family and your community, it always means more. I just always think of myself. Regardless of my surroundings, I was just happy to be on the biggest stage in the world to represent. Having that honor and representation means more than the sport you play.”