World Bum

Annise Parker, Controller of the City of Houston, running for Mayor in 11/2009. One of the nearly 90 candidates backed by the Victory Fund.

In their own words: Leadership matters. The individuals we elect to govern have a direct impact on our lives. The decisions they make are important, and the examples they set can inspire and influence our communities, our states and our country.

The Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund identifies, trains and elects LGBT leaders to all levels of office, in every corner of America.  The Victory Fund and the courageous we endorse have proven that with smart strategic support and the financial resources necessary – typically twice what straight candidates need to raise – LGBT candidates can run and win anywhere.

Why I like them: Non heterosexual folk are grossly underrepresented at all levels of government (only 3 are openly gay in all of Congress as of today). I would have loved to be perfectly confident in the good intentions of the non gay politicians, but the fact that we still have to fight for equal rights for all US citizens muddies that notion. If all of them were as enlightened and dedicated, gay inequality would have been a thing of the past. We need advocates to stand up for us where it matters the most and who can ensure that we will be granted our rights without unreasonable or intentional delays. As importantly, homosexual human beings come from a place of a great understanding and are particularly able to give voice to all — not just their own — but to all who can’t speak for themselves. They will always be there to challenge the rest when things get uncomfortable or complacent. The Victory Fund rallies support (voices, volunteers and cash) behind credible GLBT candidates to all public offices across the US.

Impact story: (Even more impact after this year’s elections) The Victory Fund has backed Annise Parker. She is one of the highest-ranking municipal officials in the LGBT community. She has been elected six times in Houston, in the most recent three as the city’s number two — Controller of the city of Houston. Throughout her political career, she has been a huge advocate for civil equality, from fighting the repeal of Houston’s non-discrimination policy to campaigning against the Texas’ anti-marriage equality amendment. She is currently running for Mayor of Houston. She has a really good shot. If she succeeds, she will have an opportunity to blaze unprecedented trails — both as a mightily capable city forewoman and as a supporter for GLBT equality… all in one of the most conservative states of the Union. Support her here. Election’s on November 3rd.

How you can get involved: You can donate to the Victory Fund here. (or to Annise from the same place) There aren’t any volunteer opportunities directly with the organization, but you can get involved with any of the nearly 90 candidates the support.

Cool brand asset: It’s not their colors. It’s not there logo. It’s not their imagery. In fact, I wish I had the time to shake someone up over there, so they would invest in adding a little snap to their identity. Their strength is the brand value proposition: I would like equal rights for myself and my community + The Victory Fund is the organization that support the most credible candidates from the Gay Community = Together, we can bring about real change within our lifetimes and ensure that we have the same rights as the other 90%.

What the authorities say: A pretty lean operation, with only 10% overhead. Annual report here.