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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Joseph Rendeiro
(202) 776-1566
jrendeiro@nclr.org
This year’s LGBT and Allies Reception during the 2013 NCLR (National Council of La Raza) Annual Conference honored Sheriff Lupe Valdez, the first female, first Hispanic and first lesbian Sheriff of Dallas County, Texas. Sheriff Valdez, who has worked in law enforcement for over 30 years at both the federal and state levels, took office in 2005 and has been reelected twice to continue on in the role.
“I am honored and humbled to receive such recognition from the National Council of La Raza,” said Valdez. “I am committed to ensuring the humane and equal treatment of all people regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation.”
In 2013, Valdez was included in “The Out List,” an HBO documentary exploring LGBT identity in America that featured prominent LGBT leaders such as talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, actor Neil Patrick Harris, financial guru Suze Orman and politician Christine Quinn.
“Sheriff Valdez has a unique story to tell—one that speaks to the strength of diversity in this nation,” said Janet Murguía, President and CEO of NCLR. “She is one of the top law enforcement officials in the country. She has made the streets of Dallas County safer and won reelection twice with broad support from many different communities. Sheriff Valdez is an inspiring leader for both the LGBT and Latino communities and embodies the spirit of working together to create a stronger nation that protects the rights of all of its citizens.”
The LGBT and Allies reception is held annually to honor the accomplishments of LGBT Latinos. Previous honorees include actor Wilson Cruz and activist and NCLR Board Member Catherine Pino.
This year’s reception was sponsored by American Airlines, Hilton, the Human Rights Campaign and Ketel One Vodka.
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