Daniel Ramos, Executive Director of One Colorado, the state’s leading advocacy organization for LGBTQ Coloradans and their families, released the following statement in response to tonight’s election results:

‍On the election of Governor-elect Jared Polis:

‍“The results of this gubernatorial election were felt across the entire country, as a major barrier fell with the election of the nation’s first openly gay man as governor. With the election of Governor-elect Polis, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Americans from all walks of life see that they can be anything they want to be, even governor, no matter who they are or who they love. Simply put, this is an unprecedented and a historic night, and I cannot emphasize how happy and proud I am of Jared Polis for achieving this remarkable victory.”

‍On the election of pro-equality majorities in the state House and Senate:

‍“For the past four years, we have talked about our efforts to flip one vote in the state Senate in order to pass pro-equality legislation that would make Colorado a more fair and just state for all, including LGBTQ Coloradans. Tonight, voters rejected hate and division, and elected leaders who will represent and fight for all of their constituents, no matter who they are or who they love. I am so excited to work with these pro-equality majorities in the state House and Senate, and I can’t wait to get started.”

‍Statement on tonight’s election results overall:

‍“It speaks volumes how far Colorado has come in just 26 years. In 1992, Colorado was known as the hate state when it passed Amendment 2. Tonight, in 2018 – we have elected our first openly governor and pro-equality majorities in the state House and Senate. I am so proud of our state, and I can’t wait to see what kind of work we can accomplish together to ensure Colorado continues to move forward as a fair and just state for all.”