Evan Low, a prominent former California State Assemblymember, has been appointed as the new President and CEO of the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund and Victory Institute. These organizations are dedicated to electing and training LGBTQ+ politicians and leaders to increase representation in government at all levels.
Low steps into this influential role following the leadership of Annise Parker, the former Mayor of Houston, who served with distinction for seven years. Under Parker's leadership, the organization made significant strides in advocating for LGBTQ+ representation. In a press release, it was noted that Low will continue to build upon Parker's legacy. "As LGBTQ+ voices face increasing challenges, Evan Low is poised to champion those who remain critically underrepresented, while amplifying LGBTQ+ voices and advancing equality for all," the release stated.
In his statement regarding the new appointment, Evan Low expressed his enthusiasm for leading organizations that have deeply influenced his career in public service. "I am thrilled to take on this leadership role," Low said. "The Victory Fund and Institute have been instrumental in shaping my journey, empowering me to pursue public office."
His journey in politics began at a young age. As a twenty-year-old candidate, Low experienced firsthand the impact of the Victory Fund's commitment to training and electing future leaders. "Twenty years later, I am coming home to continue that mission—welcoming current and new supporters as we work to secure more seats at more tables and make our voices heard in more halls of power worldwide," he added.
Low's political career includes serving over a decade in the California State Assembly. He was the first Asian American elected to the Campbell City Council and was recognized as the youngest outgoing mayor in the United States. The Sacramento Bee lauded him as California's "most prolific lawmaker." His longstanding relationship with the Victory Fund dates back to 2004, when he was first endorsed by the organization.
Joseph Falk, Chair of the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund Board of Directors, expressed confidence in Low's ability to fulfill the organization's mission. "With Evan Low's extensive background in politics, we are confident that he will help elect more LGBTQ+ leaders and ensure they have the tools to serve successfully," Falk noted. "Under his leadership, we can expect more LGBTQ+ candidates, more election wins, and a greater political impact for our community."
Howard Pulchin-Ramos, Chair of the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute Board, echoed these sentiments. "We've long admired Evan's commitment, service, and focus on both his constituents and the broader LGBTQ+ community," Pulchin-Ramos remarked. "At this crucial juncture in our history and movement, we are proud to welcome Evan as the next leader of Victory."
Evan Low himself has emphasized his dedication to ensuring that LGBTQ+ voices are represented at the highest levels of office. "Our voices must not only be included but must be impossible to ignore," he said. "I am committed to ensuring that we are represented at the highest levels, pushing for a future where our community has a seat at every table."
In a recent conversation, Low reflected on how being openly gay has contributed to his success. "The wonderful thing about being openly gay is that you can live your authentic self," Low shared. "What you see is what you get, and many people appreciate authenticity." He explained that authenticity allows for respectful disagreements and fosters genuine connections. "Even when I disagree with my mother on various issues, we can still come together, and she’ll still make me wash dishes after dinner," Low quipped.
This commitment to authenticity and representation underscores Low's vision for a more inclusive political environment, where diverse voices are heard and respected. His leadership at the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund and Institute promises to carry forward the mission of empowering queer leaders across the globe.
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