Volunteer Spotlight showcases the work of NEAT's volunteers who are the backbone of what we do every day for LGBTQ+ Justice.

​Name: Victor Sanchez
Pronouns: He/His/Him
Age:29
City & State:  California

Tell us about yourself outside of NEAT volunteering! (e.g. work, family, hobbies)

I listen to public radio while helping out my family around this rural community and make efforts to enjoy much of life especially reading the newspaper and supporting other political campaigns around the country.

What's your connection to LGBTQ+ justice work?

Just to help out my fellow human beings to love who they love consensually. Also my sister is dating someone who is transgender so that builds a better connection there.

What is your volunteer role(s) at NEAT? What inspired you to get involved?

I’m a simple phone banker that wanted to make a difference one way or another to make sure that human rights were going in a better direction for many that need to know that they are loved and accepted.

Share a memory from volunteering that sticks out in your mind.

Telling the team when my sister told my parents about dating someone who is transgender and the consequences that occurred afterward , when my family was quiet livid. The team did what they could to console me and I’m alright I’m just worried about how my sister and him will be able to have a future that can be quite questionable in terms of acceptance from family.

What would you say to anyone considering volunteering with NEAT?

That you will get plenty of amazing coaching and some sense of courage will be formed when confronting possible homophobia and xenophobia through these calls. That somewhere in that mind frame that when you go through minutes and hours to make a difference in a community that may or may not be yours... that you find yourself knowing that it is outstandingly worth it.

There is always value to your life. Maybe a huge amount or just a tiny faction but my goodness there is value to your efforts to helping someone you don’t know.

by Jeff B White

UPDATE: Thank you to our team of over two dozen volunteers across the country who helped make a successful Day of Action for the Equality Act! These volunteers made calls to voters in two key states to talk about the importance of the Equality Act. They also transferred  dozens of voters who left over 60 messages of support with their U.S. Senators. Thank you! 

​Despite a major win last month in the Supreme Court, there have been some negative rulings around LGBTQ+ issues as well this year. That's why National Equality Action Team (NEAT) along with our partners, will be hosting A Day of Action for the Equality Act.

​On  June 14th, NEAT will be hosting on demand phone banks throughout the day to assist voters in leaving messages for their senators urging them to pass the Equality Act. As well, NEAT’s partners will be hosting virtual meetings with senate staff members discussing the importance of this legislation. One thing we know for sure is that there's only one way we'll win equality and justice — by having real conversations with local people about our issues. You can sign up to join us here!
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The Equality Act is a proposed national law that would provide consistent and explicit non-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people across key areas of life, including employment, housing, credit, education, public spaces and services, federally funded programs, and jury service.

The Equality Act also amends existing law to prohibit discrimination in public spaces and services and federally funded programs on the basis of sex. Additionally, it would update the public spaces and services covered in current law to include retail stores, services such as banks and legal services, and transportation services. 

These important updates would strengthen existing protections for everyone. We can do it but only with your help. So sign up today!!