Equality California Names New Executive Director

Equality California, the group behind the massive movement to legalize same-sex marriage in the state of California, named a new executive director on Monday.

Roland Palencia was hailed as a “trailblazing LGBT activist” with more than 20 years of experience on the front lines of the LGBT equal rights movement, healtcare issues and leading a non-profit organization.

He currently serves as the Community Benefits Director at L.A. Health Plan, a $1.2 billion public health plan. His work has focused on providing resources to under-served communities, including LGBT communities, undocumented immigrants and the uninsured.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve California’s LGBT community and to build upon Equality California’s tremendous success,” Palencia said. “I am committed to creating a better future for all LGBT Californians and to connecting the LGBT movement to the broader movement for socio-economic justice.

“Although permanently ending discrimination against LGBT people can be a daunting task, I am confident that together we will prevail. I look forward to getting to know and working with our dedicated membership, legislators and coalition partners as we strive to further Equality California’s mission to achieve full equality for all LGBT Californians.”

Palencia begins his tenure on July 5.