Equity
Overview
Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis has consistently fought for equality and inclusivity in California. Through her work, Lieutenant Governor Kounalakis has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender identity, have the opportunity to live with dignity and equality.
Establishment of the Transgender Advisory Council
Lieutenant Governor Kounalakis made history by establishing the nation’s first Transgender Advisory Council. This council serves as a critical platform for addressing issues faced by the transgender community and advising on policies that promote inclusivity and equality. The council’s creation underscores her dedication to ensuring that all voices are heard, particularly those of marginalized communities.
“Here in California, I’m proud we have enacted many protections for LGBTQ+ people, but we still have work to do, and that is especially true for issues facing our transgender and nonbinary family, friends, and neighbors. Establishing this council gives transgender leaders the space to have an open dialogue with key stakeholders who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to hear directly from them. I hope bridging this gap will help to amplify important issues and bring more understanding of the community. I look forward to the opportunity to listen, to learn, and to help elevate the voices of the members.”
First Woman to Sign a Bill into Law in California
Lieutenant Governor Kounalakis shattered a significant glass ceiling when she became the first woman in California’s history to sign a bill into law.
Protecting and Expanding Reproductive Access
Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis has been a steadfast advocate for reproductive rights, especially in the wake of Roe v. Wade’soverturn. She has sponsored and supported over 25 reproductive health bills that were signed by the Governor since she took office in 2019. Lieutenant Governor Kounalakis also co-sponsored SCA 10 in 2022, a historic measure that enshrined abortion rights in California’s constitution, reinforcing the state’s commitment to reproductive freedom. By collaborating with reproductive health organizations and legislative allies, the Lieutenant Governor has played a pivotal role in ensuring California remains at the forefront of reproductive health access and protections.
“Since the Supreme Court’s decision in the Dobbs case this summer, California has refused to accept that anyone except an individual and their healthcare provider should be involved in making decisions about their bodies. I am so proud that Californians turned out and voted overwhelmingly to enshrine the right to contraception and abortion into our state constitution, ensuring California will continue to lead the nation in guaranteeing the strongest possible protections for these fundamental rights.”