Lisa Goodman, the founding president of Equality Delaware, played a significant role in Sarah McBride’s journey as a transgender advocate. After McBride came out, Goodman encouraged her to use her voice to lobby for state legislation that would benefit the transgender community. This encouragement proved to be true as McBride interned at the White House, helped pass a bill in Delaware protecting transgender people from discrimination, and became the first transgender person to speak at a major political convention.
McBride faced personal tragedy as well when her husband, Andrew Cray, passed away from oral cancer shortly after they married in 2014. Despite the heartbreaking loss, McBride carries with her the lessons Cray taught her about creating real change and meeting people where they are. She credits him with the ability to bridge contradictions and complexities in order to move forward and make a difference.
In the midst of her personal challenges, McBride continued to pursue her passion for LGBTQ advocacy. She joined the Center for American Progress and later the Human Rights Campaign, where she became the national press secretary. McBride’s ability to bridge contradictions and create change was evident in her work advocating for paid family leave in Delaware, which she successfully sponsored and helped pass as a state senator.
Overall, McBride’s journey is a testament to her resilience, perseverance, and commitment to creating positive change for the LGBTQ community. She continues to honor the memory of her late husband while pushing forward with her advocacy work, demonstrating the power of bridging contradictions and showing up for those in need.
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