The Massachusetts Gubernatorial Election is approaching. Maura Healey, the Massachusetts Attorney General, won the Democratic primary for Massachusetts governor. If she wins the gubernatorial election, Healey will be the nation’s first openly lesbian governor as well as the state’s first elected woman governor.

Ellyn Ruthstrom, executive director of SpeakOut Boston for eight years, has dedicated herself to telling real-life stories to enhance society’s understanding of the LGBTQ+ community and create safer and more inclusive spaces for everyone.

“We have a long history of progressive activism within our state,” says Ruthstrom. “But Massachusetts LGBTQ+ community still faces enduring challenges. It’s about time, and hopefully, Massachusetts will be the first state to have the first lesbian governor elected. That’s a big thing.”

Ruthstrom also thinks it’s essential for people who are not a part of the community to see this as an opportunity to be a supportive ally to the LGBTQ+ folks in the state and beyond. She says, “our allies are so important to us, whether you’re family, friends, coworkers, colleagues,” Rostrum believes it’s vital for folks to stand up for the LGBTQ+ community and to be able to put that into action.

*SpeakOUT Boston is a non-profit speakers organization to create a world free of homo-bi-transphobia and other forms of prejudice. SpeakOUT Boston doesn’t endorse any political stand; this video only represents Ellyn Ruthstrom’s personal views.