Denver, CO -- One Colorado, the state’s leading advocacy organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) Coloradans and their families, released the following statement from Executive Director, Daniel Ramos.

‍“It’s important to see yourself represented, celebrated, and respected in all aspects of life. In politics, where decisions impact thousands of lives, this is especially true. Colorado is fortunate to have a strong LGBTQ Legislative Caucus and just as importantly, diversity within that caucus. With Representative Alex Valdez as the new chair, we believe that Colorado will continue to make progress as a national leader for LGBTQ rights and will include people of color and other minorities in that progress.” - Daniel Ramos, One Colorado Executive Director.“I am honored to lead the LGBTQ caucus,”

‍said Rep. Alex Valdez (D-Denver).

“We made tremendous progress in the last year. We protected our LGBTQ youth by banning the dangerous practice of conversion therapy. We ensured that government identification reflects Coloradans’ true selves. We passed legislation to bring our students a history curriculum that shares the incredible contributions of LGBTQ Americans. We will continue to work hard to make progress on LGBTQ rights and ensure an inclusive Colorado.”

‍Rep. Alex Valdez HD5 replaces former Co-Chairs, Sen. Dominick Moreno SD21 and Rep. Daneya Esgar HD46, as the chair of the LGBTQ Caucus. Other members include Sen. Joann Ginal SD14, Rep. Leslie Herod HD8, Rep. Sonya Jaquez Lewis HD12, and Rep. Brianna Titone HD27.Last legislative session, with enormous support from the LGBTQ caucus, Colorado passed HB19-1039: Jude’s Law, which makes it easier for transgender and gender nonconforming individuals to update their identity documents and HB19-1129: Prohibit Conversion Therapy for A Minor, which bans conversion therapy for LGBTQ youth.