As Joe Biden enters the final phase of his presidency, his journey on LGBTQ+ rights stands out as a testament to personal growth and societal change.
Decades ago, when Biden was a junior U.S. senator from Delaware, he encountered challenging questions about gay rights that caught him unprepared. During a meeting with the North Star Civic Association, activist Robert Vane questioned Biden’s stance on discriminatory employment and military regulations affecting gay Americans.
Biden’s initial response, which expressed concerns that homosexuals might be security risks, reflected the prevailing attitudes of the time, as reported by The Morning News.
Fast forward to a June afternoon in 2023, and a different image of Biden emerges. On the White House South Lawn, Biden, now President, hosted the largest Pride event in the venue’s history. Addressing a crowd adorned with rainbow flags, he celebrated the courage and inspiration of the LGBTQ+ community, recognising their role in shaping a more inclusive nation and world.
These two events, separated by fifty years, encapsulate Biden’s significant shift in perspective on LGBTQ+ issues. Once seen as a sceptic, Biden has evolved into one of the most supportive U.S. Presidents for LGBTQ+ rights, a transformation that mirrors broader societal changes and his personal growth. His evolution is partly attributed to increased public acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals and partly to personal relationships and experiences that have shaped his views.
One influential figure in Biden’s journey is Sarah McBride, a transgender state senator from Delaware and a long-time family friend. McBride’s relationship with Biden, which began in her childhood, deepened over the years, particularly as she became an advocate for transgender rights. Her insights and experiences have been instrumental in informing Biden’s understanding and policies.
A pivotal moment in Biden’s journey occurred during the 1990s when a candid conversation with a gay man on a train highlighted the everyday challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. This moment, among other things, contributed to Biden’s public endorsement of same-sex marriage in 2012, a stance he expressed even before then-President Barack Obama.
In his tenure as President, Biden has made significant strides in advancing LGBTQ+ rights, including signing legislation to protect same-sex and interracial marriages. His administration is notable for its inclusive approach, with many LGBTQ+ individuals in key roles.
Biden’s policy-making has been shaped by advisers like Neera Tanden and Pete Buttigieg, along with input from activists like McBride. These contributions reflect Biden’s commitment to human dignity and equality, core convictions guiding his leadership.
As his presidency approaches its conclusion, Biden’s dedication to LGBTQ+ issues remains strong. His administration’s efforts to create an inclusive environment and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights are seen as a crucial part of his legacy.
In a foreword for McBride’s book, Biden emphasised the importance of understanding and accepting LGBTQ+ individuals as part of a broader effort to combat bigotry and fear in society. This perspective, shaped by numerous experiences and relationships, highlights Biden’s enduring commitment to equality and justice.
