Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, the House of Representatives passed a bill that would create LGBTQ+ Day to recognize the many contributions and sacrifices of LGBTQ+ people in New Mexico by a vote of 43-11.
House Bill 518 would make the fourth Tuesday of January of each odd-numbered year LGBTQ+ Day in the New Mexico legislature. LBQTQ+ Day would celebrate the past, present, and future New Mexicans of this community and honor the progress they have achieved including marriage equality and representation in government.
"Not that long ago, members of the LGBTQ+ community would not have thought it would be possible to be recognized in the legislature," said lead sponsor Rep. Marianna Anaya (D-Albuquerque). "We owe it to New Mexicans to acknowledge how far we've come, how far we still need to go, and reaffirm that our state is a place where our diversity isn't just accepted, but celebrated."
House Bill 518 is now headed to the Senate.
Members of the public are welcome to attend floor sessions and committee meetings at the New Mexico Roundhouse, and can tune in virtually through the New Mexico Legislature's Webcasts tab. Public comment can also be provided in-person, and via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.
