First Openly Transgender Person To Speak At Democratic Convention

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) announced Sunday that Sarah McBride will speak Thursday at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Philadelphia, making her the first openly transgender person to speak at a major party convention.

McBride, the group's national press secretary, will address DNC delegates on Thursday.

HRC President Chad Griffin, who will also speak at the DNC, applauded the news.

“Hillary Clinton won’t be the only woman to make history this Thursday,” Griffin said. “When Sarah McBride takes the stage, she will become the first transgender person to speak at a national Democratic or Republican convention. Sarah’s inclusion in Thursday’s program is a significant milestone for our community, and it sends a strong message that transgender people and their voices matter. I'm also honored to address a national convention where LGBTQ advocates will play such an integral and historic role. Next week’s Democratic National Convention will underscore the stark contrast between Hillary Clinton and Tim Kaine’s vision for a more equal America and Donald Trump and Mike Pence’s agenda of hate and division.”

McBride also serves on HRC's steering committee Trans United for Hillary.

“I am honored for this opportunity to share my story and to be the first transgender person to speak at a major party convention,” McBride said. “People must understand that even as we face daily harassment, tragic violence, and an onslaught of anti-LGBTQ political attacks across the country, we are real people merely seeking to be treated with the dignity and respect every person deserves. I'm so proud to stand with the LGBT Caucus and speak out in support of Hillary Clinton, because we know she stands with us.”