EQNM has been actively involved in the legislative session in Santa Fe since it began. The organization, alongside partner groups and supportive legislators, is working to maintain and expand progress made in New Mexico.
During the second week of the session, EQNM described the atmosphere as "the calm before the storm." The team engaged in strategic planning, built relationships, participated in UNM Day with Representative Marianna Anaya, and hosted 54 attendees at their monthly LGBTQ Roundtable meeting. Most priority bills are expected to be introduced soon, which will likely increase activity significantly.
Representative Marianna Anaya acknowledged a group of University of New Mexico alumni advocates for their continuous community support. EQNM was joined by ACLU-NM and Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains during this recognition.
Nathan Saavedra, Program Manager at EQNM, stated: “The EQNM team is hard at work. Energy is high, and we are passionately focused on getting as much done as we can to ensure the safety and livelihoods of our New Mexico communities."
Despite federal executive orders perceived as targeting LGBTQ Americans, particularly trans individuals, EQNM remains committed to protecting rights within New Mexico. The past week highlighted both community resilience and ongoing challenges.
Saavedra noted: "Unfortunately, we expected a variety of anti-LGBTQ, and especially anti-trans legislation to be introduced this session. We are prepared and able to fight these bad bills. Our Legislature has a majority of supportive LGBTQ-friendly legislators which provides us with the mettle we need to push back against what does not help New Mexico, and push forward what reinforces our progress as a state."
EQNM encourages public engagement through social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter/X, and Bluesky. They also offer updates via their news blog every Sunday night for those seeking more detailed analysis.
Simple actions like signing petitions or sharing content on social media can contribute significantly. For those willing to engage further, joining EQNM's Rapid Response Team offers opportunities for real-time participation when critical issues arise.
The current legislative session underscores that while progress is achievable, it requires continued advocacy from all community members. EQNM remains committed to advancing equality for LGBTQ individuals in New Mexico but emphasizes the importance of collective effort.
