The Arlington government’s new LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee held its first meeting this week, electing a chair and vice chair and beginning to set priorities.
“I want to hear the different ideas everyone has, and how we can work together,” said Laman Ben-Trahoret, a committee member, on Monday (Oct. 21).
The committee was set up to advise County Manager Mark Schwartz and other Arlington leaders, provide recommendations and promote visibility and inclusion, said Elizabeth Matlock, who is serving as staff liaison to the body.
Schwartz was on hand for the first meeting.
At the meeting, Samantha Perez was elected chair and Liz Erion vice chair. Perez represents Equality Arlington and Erion represents Arlington Gender Identity Allies on the panel.
The committee will meet at least quarterly, more often if needed. Initial meetings will focus on goal-setting and prioritizing issues to address.
“We’ve gotten a taste of what everyone is excited about,” Perez said in wrapping up the 75-minute kickoff event.
It is “a project I’m passionate about,” Perez said of the effort when tapped to serve as its chair.
While the county government provides a range of services for the LGBTQ+ community, there are many issues that need attention, said Kellen MacBeth. While not a committee member, he is president of Equality Arlington, which pressed for creation of the panel.
MacBeth said getting the committee started was a positive step forward for the county government.
“We’re hoping the advisory committee can be a force-multiplier to help push the county and provide advice and guidance,” MacBeth said.
The 15 members will serve two-year terms and be eligible for reappointment for up to 10 years in total.
