Vote Gay: Georgia

Simone Bell

Candidate for Georgia State Representative, District 58

In December of 2009, Simone Bell made history by winning a seat in the Georgia state House of Representatives, making her the first openly lesbian Black-American to win a seat in a state legislature.

Since she won a special election, however, Simone will need to hang on to that seat for a full term in order to have time to fight for the causes she believes in, including access to affordable healthcare, fighting HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination, safe schools for all children and LGBT equality. Since Simone represents areas of Atlanta with a high concentration of LGBT residents, she will be unafraid to speak up on the House floor.

Simone’s tireless community activism and policy expertise earned her the support of a variety of local politicians, including Georgia state Rep. Margaret Kaiser.

Joan Garner

Candidate for Fulton County Commissioner

As an ambassador, advocate and agent for change, Joan P. Garner has been on the leading edge of social justice activism for most of her life. Whether working to raise public awareness of gay and lesbian rights, or raising funds for AIDS legislation, she is a passionate champion for human rights.

She’s been a Fulton County resident since the 1970s, where she helped revitalize and preserve the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic District.

Now Joan hopes to bring her passion and experience to bear as a member of the Fulton County Commission, which has never had an out member.

 For more info on LGBTQ candidates running in Georgia, please visit the Victory Fund.