Editors IN Box:
The torch has been passed, and Out In Jersey is sure that it will be carried well. Steven Goldstein, Founder and former CEO of Garden State Equality has stepped down and moved to Rutgers University. His position as head of New Jersey’s leading LGBT civil rights group will be led by newcomer Troy Stevenson. Like Steven, Troy was born elsewhere but has adopted New Jersey as his home. Like Steven, he is passionate about the LGBTs in his new home state.
Steven’s dedication and passion helped to usher in a new era in LGBT rights. He was at the forefront of the fights for nondiscrimination, marriage equality and bullying laws. It’s fair to say that without him, we would not enjoy the rights and privileges that we currently have. Sure, we don’t have marriage equality and discrimination against transgender New Jerseyans is still widespread, but during Goldstein’s tenure, Garden State Equality has seen over 200 laws passed that helped to ensure more equality for the LGBT community. We have one of the strongest anti-bullying laws in the nation. Once more, marriage equality may again be within our grasp.
As a former employee of Garden State Equality, I am comfortable in the knowledge that Troy will carry on, and perhaps exceed, the incredible work done before him. Troy has a strong background in grassroots organizing (including working for the Obama and Gore campaigns and for marriage equality in Maine). He worked on GSE’s 2009 bid for marriage equality. His background, passion and caring nature prepare him well to be the figurehead of NJ’s LGBT movement.
As the nation moves towards treating LGBTs as full citizens, New Jersey will remain at the forefront of equality. Out In Jersey offers its congratulations to Troy Stevenson. We are sure that he will fill the big shoes that await him.
Editors IN Box:
The torch has been passed, and Out In Jersey is sure that it will be carried well. Steven Goldstein, Founder and former CEO of Garden State Equality has stepped down and moved to Rutgers University. His position as head of New Jersey’s leading LGBT civil rights group will be led by newcomer Troy Stevenson. Like Steven, Troy was born elsewhere but has adopted New Jersey as his home. Like Steven, he is passionate about the LGBTs in his new home state.
