In cities across the country, LGBTQ+ Victory Institute’s 2025 Public Leadership Summits have brought together local changemakers to spark one powerful idea: our communities are strongest when our voices are represented at every level of government.
These free, half-day programs are designed to elevate conversations around LGBTQ+ representation in public office—and this year, they’re making an impact. With a local focus, each summit brings in LGBTQ+ elected officials and partners with grassroots organizations to foster conversations specific to the region with the goal of inspiring LGBTQ+ people and allies to step into leadership roles and see public service as a tool for change.
In the first half of 2025, LGBTQ+ Victory Institute successfully hosted six summits across the country—in Pittsburgh, South Florida, Atlanta, Milwaukee, St. Louis, and Denver—engaging more than 270 community members in conversations about representation, leadership, and the unique challenges and opportunities facing LGBTQ+ candidates in each region.
Participant feedback underscores the impact of the program:
- 92% reported feeling more excited to run for office after attending the summit.
- 91% said they felt more prepared to pursue a campaign than they were before.
One participant from shared, “I didn’t actually think I could or would ever run, but now I am thinking maybe I should do more for my state.” Another noted, “After the summit, I feel more proactive about being involved with our community.”
The summits also prioritize community-building—creating a space where LGBTQ+ individuals can connect, collaborate, and support one another in their leadership journeys. In a time when LGBTQ+ communities are facing growing political attacks, this sense of solidarity is more critical than ever.
As one participant remarked, “Thank you all for making a safe space for LGBTQ+ people to feel heard, seen, and enabled to make change.”
LGBTQ+ Victory Institute’s Public Leadership Summits demonstrate that fostering LGBTQ+ leadership starts at the local level—with conversations that empower, networks that sustain, and communities that uplift.
To learn more about the LGBTQ+ Public Leadership Summits or to explore bringing one to your region, message training@victoryinstitute.org and visit victoryinstitute.org.
