Breaking Barriers: Laphonza Butler's Historic Journey Shatters LGBTQ Representation in the Senate

Shay Franco-Clausen expressed her long-awaited excitement for someone like Laphonza Butler to attain a prominent role in the United States government. Being a Californian, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and an Afro-Latina woman, Franco-Clausen finds immense satisfaction in witnessing someone who truly comprehends the challenges faced by her communities succeed Senator Dianne Feinstein.

Franco-Clausen, the co-chair of the National Black Justice Coalitions Good Trouble Network, which strives to promote policies benefiting the Black LGBTQ+ community, expressed, "It is high time that someone like Senator Butler creates opportunities for others."

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Butler recently made history as the first recorded Black lesbian woman to be appointed to Congress. Presently, she holds the distinction of being the sole Black woman in the Senate and the third Black woman to ever serve in this legislative body.

To emphasize the significance of this milestone, Vice President Kamala Harris, the country's former second Black female senator who now holds the position of the first female vice president of the US, administered the oath of office to Butler. Notably, Butler's wife stood by her side during this momentous occasion.

Butler has refrained from emphasizing her race or sexuality in public statements regarding her appointment to fill Feinstein's seat. However, Franco-Clausen expressed hope that the California senator will bring about a new era of representation.

"She stands alone. She is a trailblazer," Franco-Clausen stated. "I am extremely thrilled because her status as a pioneer implies that I can also be present. This sends a powerful message to young Black girls who identify as queer or non-binary. By being the first, she has paved the way for us to thrive."

From union leader to lawmaker

Feinstein was the longest-serving female senator in US history. She died last month at 90.

Feinstein had a significant presence in California politics for several decades, accomplishing numerous groundbreaking achievements. She made history as the inaugural female chair of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, the first woman to serve on the Senate Judiciary Committee, and the pioneering chairwoman of both the Senate Rules and Administration Committee and the Senate Intelligence Committee.

To honor his commitment of nominating a Black woman as the successor to the deceased senator, Democratic California Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Butler to assume the role.

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Sen. Laphonza Butler, D-Calif., Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., right, and Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., prepare for a news conference.

"In announcing her appointment, he stated that as we grieve the significant loss of Senator Feinstein, Laphonza will assume the responsibilities, forge ahead in shattering barriers, and advocate for the well-being of all Californians in Washington, D.C."

Butler pledged to pay tribute to the deceased senator as she assumed her position.

"The impact and accomplishments of Sen. Dianne Feinstein are immeasurable," stated Butler. "I will strive to honor her by dedicating my time and effort to serving both the people of California and the entire nation."

But despite the enthusiasm surrounding her appointment, Butler has yet to confirm her candidacy for the seat, leaving her intentions unknown.

In November 2024, California will conduct two Senate elections: one for the remaining months of Feinstein's term until January 2025, and another for a complete six-year term.

So far, the candidates competing for Butler's seat include Democratic Representatives Adam Schiff, Katie Porter, and Barbara Lee. Lee, a former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and a member of House Democratic leadership, is joined by Schiff and Porter in this field. Much like Feinstein, Butler has made significant strides and accomplishments throughout her career.

Originally from Mississippi, Butler is a graduate of Jackson State University. Additionally, she has been actively involved in the University of California Board of Regents, as affirmed by EMILYS List, a political advocacy group that works towards electing Democratic women who champion abortion rights. In a groundbreaking move, Butler achieved a historic milestone in 2021 by becoming the inaugural woman of color to lead the organization.

Moreover, Butler has contributed her expertise as a board member for the National Children's Defense Fund.

Butler's involvement in the 2016 presidential campaign of Hillary Clinton, as well as her role as a senior adviser on the 2020 presidential campaign of then-Senator Kamala Harris, is notable. However, what truly distinguishes her, as stated by the governors office, is her tenure as president of California's largest labor union, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 2015.

The union represents close to 450,000 healthcare workers employed in nursing homes and long-term care facilities across the state. Franco-Clausen believes that Butler's extensive experience in this field will be a valuable asset in the Senate.

"We have a Black queer individual who identifies as a mother and has worked closely with healthcare professionals. Therefore, she possesses a deep understanding of the challenges faced by women of color when it comes to medical care... She will undoubtedly hold all other lawmakers to a higher standard," stated Franco-Clausen.

Arnulfo De La Cruz, the current president of SEIU Local 2015, has worked alongside Butler at SEIU for over a decade. He praised her as a dynamic negotiator and expressed optimism that her advocacy for caregivers will continue in her new role as a legislator.

De La Cruz stated, "Laphonza had a unique ability to unite individuals who may not have traditionally come together, in order to build strength and find solutions." He also acknowledged her significant role in raising California's minimum wage to $15, describing her as the key negotiator in multiple locations across the state. De La Cruz emphasized that Butler's efforts were crucial in acknowledging the value of caregivers, as they have historically been undervalued in the workforce.

Progress for Black women and LGBTQ representation in Congress

Butlers ascent to the US Senate is perceived by many as a significant stride forward for Black women, building upon their past achievements in both state and federal roles. This momentous occasion not only symbolizes the ongoing progress but also serves as a moment in history to amplify the presence of Black women in Congress.

According to the Center for American Women and Politics, after Shirley Chisholm made history as the first Black woman elected to Congress in 1968, Black women have continued to break barriers by serving as voting members of Congress from 23 states.

Within the Democratic party, a total of 52 Black women have held positions in the House of Representatives, while three have served in the Senate. In contrast, there has only been one Black woman representing the Republican party in Congress.

Additionally, the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute reports that there are currently 13 LGBTQ+ elected officials serving in Congress.

Melanie Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, stated to CNN that Butlers appointment signifies the expansion of "Black political influence at the highest level of our nation's legislature."

Campbell added that this appointment ensures a Black leader who can advocate for the federal legislative policy priorities of Black Americans, particularly during a critical period in our history where our rights, freedom, and democracy are being challenged.

David Johns, the executive director of the National Black Justice Coalition, believes that Butler's presence in the Senate reflects the efforts of past Black LGBTQ+ political leaders. The coalition, a civil rights organization, aims to empower LGBTQ+ individuals and same-gender loving people, including those living with HIV/AIDS.

With Butler now in office, Johns expresses hope for her active advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community, extending beyond the boundaries of California. He emphasizes the importance of pushing for legislation like the Equality Act, a bill previously delayed in Congress, which aims to address mental health concerns for both Black and LGBTQ+ citizens.

"She is exactly what is required at this moment," he stated. "It is crucial for her to not only occupy physical space, but also to challenge norms in a manner that aligns with our nation's current emphasis on diversity."

This report includes contributions from CNN's Kaanita Iyer, Clare Foran, Paul LeBlanc, and Edward-Isaac Dovere