Mondaire Jones - a step closer to solidarity

Jones, a Democrat, was elected to represent New York's 17th Congressional District in the House.

"Growing up poor, Black and gay, I never imagined someone like me could run for Congress, let alone win."

Having never seen a member of Congress just like him — Black and openly gay — Mondaire Jones drew on qualities that he admired from several sources as he summoned the inspiration and courage to run for the House of Representatives.

The Equality Act was passed earlier this year which include Jones' bill the Non-Discrimination Act - this has been a long time coming!

LGBTQ advocates have made life better; they are seen, they are valued, there lies are made worthy of being protective.

Jones and fellow Democrat Ritchie Torres, who won his race to represent New York's 15th Congressional District, will be the first openly LGBTQ Black member of congress

in the history of America.

"I'm excited about serving with Ritchie," Jones said. "He's a tremendous candidate and a good friend. This is a chance for us to be the role model we looked for growing up — for queer youth and especially queer youth of color."

Jones has admitted that coming out at age 24 wasn't easy, as much because he hadn't fully come to terms with himself as over concern that others wouldn't accept him.

Ultimately, we still have a long way to go in terms of oppression (in terms of race, sex and identity) within congress. However, we are seeing small steps towards a brighter future, it's now up to our generation to make a revolution.