Freshman Rep. Katie Hill (D-Calif.) said in a new interview that she faced anti-LGBT discrimination while campaigning for her House seat.
Hill, who is openly bisexual, told Refinery29 that other politicians told her not to be open about her sexuality, especially because she is married to a man. She also said she had to explain bisexuality while campaigning. {mosads}
“On the campaign trail, having to explain what bisexuality is to people was pretty unbelievable. People were like, ‘But you’re married to a man,’” she told the news site, which is focused on women.
“A lot of people encouraged me to not be open about it,” she added. “But I felt like it was important for me.”
She also told Refinery29 that she hopes to be a face for LGBT rights and to show other Capitol Hill lawmakers how their policy decisions affect individuals.
The congresswoman has been outspoken on LGBT issues, including her support for the Equality Act, which would prevent discrimination based on sexuality and gender identity.