In this episode, I chat with Brian Sims, a pioneering LGBTQ+ advocate and former Pennsylvania state legislator, who continues the fight for equality as the CEO of Agenda PAC. Brian shares his experiences as the first openly LGBTQ+ member of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, and as the only NCAA football captain to come out publicly while still active.
We discuss his journey through politics, the importance of staying true to your values, and navigating challenges like discrimination and anti-queer legislation. Brian also reflects on the significance of intersectionality, the need for genuine allyship, and his advice for those wanting to get into politics.
Highlights:
Breaking barriers as an LGBTQ+ leader in politics and sports
The challenges of being openly queer in traditionally conservative spaces
Intersectionality and its role in advocacy
How to engage with anti-equality politicians
Staying grounded while leading a movement
Advice for aspiring political activists
Listen now for a powerful conversation on leadership, equality, and making change in the world.
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Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:02:46 - Who The Hell Are You?
00:09:15 - Closeted legislatures
00:11:14 - Choosing to stay closeted
00:12:13 - Discrimination and representation
00:15:25 - Challenges of getting elected
00:20:57 - Staying calm when debating
00:22:06 - Brain’s campaign
00:23:53 - Sticking to the issues, not being defined by your queerness/identity
00:25:30 - Intersectionality
00:28:08 - Allyship & avoiding white savior complex
00:29:47 - Handling antiqueer legislators
00:36:11 - Staying grounded - reword
00:38:30 - Leaving office
00:40:58 - Marriage equalities
00:43:46 - Post election advice
00:47:02 - Advice for getting into politics
00:48:44 - Fight Me!!!
Show Links:
Chris Colfer Episode coming soon!
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Special thank you to the following:
Nate Heffel, Tobin Schiller ,James M, Christopher Neefus, Heskel, Michael Carpentiere, Timothy Cardoso, Shane Ouyang, Brian Joaquin, Carabalda, Brendan Saunders, Jeff Jay, James LEE, Andy, 正 , George Acosta, Michael Rice, Nathan Filip, Linda Johnson, Stephen Weathers, Kean Phan, James Powell, Landy Manderson
