Some of you may or may not know that I co-chaired California’s LGBT Caucus for 8 years, so I knew going to the national LGBT Caucus would be inspirational as a first time national delegate.

And it was.

As I understand it (courtesy of Steve Aronowitz), only 30 delegates represented us at the 2004 convention. Thanks to the hard work of folks like Garry Shea, Mirian Saez, with folks like Gloria Nieto laying the groundwork, over 270 delegates packed a very large room of folks this year. Apparently, the numbers are growing as delegates are coming out of the woodworks in droves. Each state, from Alabama to Nebraska to Wyoming, lgbt delegates stood and raised their hands so all could see that we are everywhere.

FYI – there was an openly gay member (retired) of the Guam Supreme Court in the room – guy’s name is B.J. Cruz (Benjamin J.F. Cruz).

Rising star Evan Low was profiled. Will post remarks later….

My friend John Perez, who will be elected to the Assembly from Southern California this November, was also highlighted. Enjoy this picture (was having camera problems….sorry about lighting)  will post later

I had to leave to go to the Stonewall Democrats Tea Reception. Met some of our nationwide democratic colleagues. And then, off to the floor…………