Berkshire County — The LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, the only national organization dedicated to electing LGBTQ+ people to public office, announced on Sunday, August 4, its endorsement of Patrick White as state representative for the 3rd Berkshire District. The endorsement signals Victory Fund’s confidence that White is well positioned to win the state representative race and be a strong voice for equality.
The 3rd Berkshire district has a history of supporting LGBTQ+ rights: Over 20 years ago Rep. Smitty Pignatelli gave his inaugural speech in the legislature in support of same-sex marriage. White interviewed Rep. Pignatelli about this speech here. White would make history as the first LGBTQ individual to hold the position of state representative for the 3rd Berkshire District, should he win.
“Patrick’s experience and commitment to smart public policy that addresses the real concerns of constituents makes him the best candidate for the 3rd District.” said Annise Parker, former mayor of Houston, Texas, and president and CEO of LGBTQ+ Victory Fund. “We are confident that when he wins in September, Patrick will be an exceptional advocate for all constituents and a strong voice for LGBTQ+ equality.”
“Patrick shared in the community’s outrage regarding the [“Gender Queer”] book-banning controversy at [Du Bois Middle School] and hopes for real accountability,” a press release from the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund stated. “He recognizes the link between bullying and suicide and believes that professional teachers and librarians, not local police or politicians, are the best judges of what is best for our students.”
