The Resistance Brief: The World is Changed

Blog by Ricardo Martinez (he/him), Executive Director

“The world is changed. I feel it in the water. I feel it in the earth. I smell it in the air. Much that once was is lost.”  ​​​​​​– Galadriel in the opening of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring 

When I was thinking about what to write to commemorate the one-year anniversary of my first speech for GLAD Law at Summer Party 2024, I didn’t know exactly where to begin. How do I encapsulate almost a year’s worth of GLAD Law memories into a blog? I asked myself: what has changed? Which immediately triggered the thought of the poetic beginning to one of my favorite movies of all time.  

Galadriel’s opening monologue evokes how a shift in power can change the very fabric of a society and alter the delicate balance that once existed. Sound familiar?    

The last year has been defined by a rearranging of power, and we’ve all felt the consequences of the choices made by those who recklessly wield it. Yet we forge ahead collectively, working to inoculate against the dark forces trying to oppress us.  It hasn’t been easy – but nothing worth fighting for is.   

As I prepare for my second Summer Party event tomorrow, I cannot help but feel grateful for the opportunity to lead this organization at this time and with the people around me. Every day, our staff gets to work, fiercely determined to improve the lives of LGBTQ+ people across the country, while at the same time pushing back against the cruel attacks of the federal administration.

I’ve watched our attorneys prepare for legal filings late into the hours of the night. I’ve traveled with members of our development team as they plan and execute three events in different states over the course of a week. I’ve listened as members of our GLAD Law Answers staff take calls from community members who call our confidential legal information line seeking assistance in crisis.  We’ve fought every day for all families to have equal protection and recognition under the law in collaboration with our partner organizations and, amid the chaos, celebrated wins in Oregon, New Mexico, Vermont, Hawaii, and Illinois. 

There is so much heart, passion, and love that radiates from the actions of our staff.  

As I move beyond my first year as Executive Director, looming threats remain, but hope is not lost, nor is it rooted in wishful thinking.    

I’m not naive enough to believe that there isn’t a fight ahead. I’m just certain that the fight will be won – and that, with your support, GLAD Law will play a vital role in making that a reality. History, if we’re willing to listen and learn from it, teaches us we’re going to be okay. The history of our movement provides a blueprint of effective strategies and tactics we can use to change the future.   

We have a multi-generational staff made up of some of the most talented and committed people.  We have a loyal group of GLAD Law donors and champions who have stepped up to support this work when asked – and sometimes without even being asked. Because they understand the urgency of this moment.  

Together, we can evoke the past while innovating for the future. In a year of unprecedented ups and downs – one truth remains: our staff continues to show up in consequential moments for our community – when inaction could have consequences – when it matters most. And we will continue to do so because uncommon courage is required, and we understand that we do not get a redo of this moment.

The world is changed. But today, a year in, and all I can think of is celebrating the people that day in and day out inspire me to remain bold, clearheaded, and unwavering in my commitment to the full liberation of all queer people.  

What to know, what to do: 

  • ​​​Want to know where LGBTQ+ families just gained new protections? Find out which states took action.
  • ​​​Check out our July 1 webinar where GLAD Law attorneys break down the latest Supreme Court rulings and their impact on LGBTQ+ rights.
  • ​​​In the face of relentless attacks, we’re still securing victories. Learn about recent LGBTQ+ wins happening right now.
  •  ​​​​​Despite ongoing legal battles, you can still get a passport with the correct sex marker. Here’s what you need to know.
  • ​​​Need a fun read? Dive into Pink News’ queer take on Lord of the Rings. 
  • Tell Governor Ayotte to veto a proposed ban on healthcare for transgender youth and protect families’ freedom to make healthcare decisions.
  • On Tuesday, the MA Senate will hold a hearing on a bill to remove barriers and modernize the security and safety of the legal name change process. Learn more and submit your testimony. 
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