Marshall Martinez - Executive Director | Equality New Mexico
The legislative session in Santa Fe has reached its midpoint, with activity levels described as frenetic. Progress is being made on several core priorities, according to reports from those involved.
Advocacy efforts have been focused on preventing legislation that could harm the LGBTQ community. Executive Director Marshall Martinez emphasized that "criminalizing New Mexicans will harm members of the LGBTQ community that many of them have previously fought hard to protect." Martinez argues against tough-on-crime approaches, suggesting they are not effective solutions.
Among the initiatives gaining traction is HB 289, a bill aimed at securing funds for HIV prevention through the Department of Health. Supporters are encouraged to follow updates on this and other related bills via social media platforms like Twitter/X.
In collaboration with partners such as the ACLU and Planned Parenthood, a Youth Lobby Day was organized, bringing 100 young people to advocate for their communities. Relationships with organizations like Bold Futures are being strengthened to ensure New Mexican voices are prioritized in policy discussions.
A Drag Brunch event was also hosted to add a lively element to the session, expressing gratitude towards participants who joined.
Attention remains on various bills affecting queer individuals and allies. Notable among these are Paid Family Medical Leave, the Benjamin Higher Education Sexual Violence Prevention Act, and a bill aimed at prohibiting library book banning. Movement on these issues is anticipated soon.
With only a few weeks left in the session, there is an ongoing call for energy and momentum to continue pushing for desired outcomes.