By Anthony T. Eaton
This article is based on an interview I did with Todd back in 2021. When I spoke to Todd, he was the newly elected president of the Stonewall Democrats of Dallas. From his experience at The Urban Institute’s Housing Finance Policy Center to founding and running a political action committee, Todd has been actively involved in various political campaigns, ranging from City Councils to Presidential elections.
In our interview, Todd reflected on his journey, discussing his early realization of being different and the supportive environment he found when coming out at the age of 19. He shared poignant moments with his mother, who embraced him after he came out, and the exposure to “Gay Culture” through movies watched with his Aunt and Grandmother.
Elected with 72% of the vote as the president of the Stonewall Democrats of Dallas, Todd discussed his longstanding interest in politics, emphasizing the need to contribute to mobilizing, energizing, and inspiring people, particularly in challenging times. Drawing inspiration from the late Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, he expressed a commitment to being on time and addressing historical challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community.
As Todd took on the role, he highlighted the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Texas, where a Republican majority holds sway in statewide offices and legislative branches. Despite this, he sees the importance of stepping up and providing leadership, especially in the face of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.
The Stonewall Democrats, a caucus within the Democratic Party operating in thirty-six states, has a historical legacy dating back to 1971. Todd emphasized the significance of local and state-level politics in shaping policies that impact LGBTQ+ lives, advocating for increased representation and support for LGBTQ+ candidates.
Reflecting on the Trump administration’s impact on LGBTQ+ rights, Todd acknowledged the challenges faced but noted that public opinion in support of equality has remained strong. Looking ahead, he sees the need for continued activism, emphasizing the importance of working together with diverse communities to achieve common goals.
Addressing challenges in LGBTQ+ adoption, Todd shared his positive experience as an openly gay and interracial couple navigating the foster-to-adopt certification process. He emphasized the importance of providing loving homes for abused and neglected children, regardless of the family’s composition.
For those looking to get involved, Todd suggested checking out organizations like the Stonewall Democrats of Dallas or others aligned with personal passions. Encouraging political engagement, he emphasized the impact individuals can have on advocacy, whether through volunteering, financial contributions, or running for office.
As for Todd’s future aspirations, he remains focused on his current role with Stonewall, expressing a commitment to leadership and the continuous evolution of his career. Whether in higher education or potentially the political realm, Todd’s goal is to continue making a positive impact and inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
There are LGBTQ+ Democratic groups across the US that work to elect pro-LGBTQ+ Democrats in federal, state, and local elections, serve as a bullhorn for LGBTQ+ governmental issues, and supply LGBTQ+ voters to ballot boxes.
https://www.stonewalldemocrats.us
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