On August 5th, Delaware’s LGBTQ+ Commission Vice Chair Vienna Cavazos notified the Office of Governor Matt Meyer that they intend to resign from the Commission, effective September 12th.
“This decision was not made lightly. It has been an honor to serve my community. As the youngest current member of this Commission, and a youth political organizer before that, I have spent my time advocating for youth LGBTQ+ rights and centering the crisis young people are facing,” said LGBTQ+ Commission Vice Chair Cavazos (they/them).
“The work will never be done, and that’s the beauty of it. In Delaware, we must prioritize the mental health and gender affirming care needs of our young people, and direct additional funding and resources toward quality care, care that is respectful and responsive to the needs of Delaware’s LGBTQ+ youth. I believe that is best ensured by more young people answering the call of advocacy and public service. We must demand a seat and a voice at the table.”
The Commission was created through Executive Order No. 1, and signed on Thursday, January 16, 2025, by former Governor Bethany Hall-Long. The Commission was continued by Governor Meyer through Executive Order No. 20 on March 18, 2026.
Since Governor Meyer took office, he has taken the Commission to new heights, including the initial appointment of nine Delawareans to the Commission and, later, an expansion of membership focused on inclusivity and visibility.
“Vienna has brought passion, perspective, and a real commitment to public service to the Delaware LGBTQ+ Commission, and I’m grateful they answered the call to serve,” said Governor Matt Meyer (he/him).
“While we’ll miss their voice on the Commission, I’m excited to see what comes next as Vienna continues their education at American University, and I know they’ll bring that same commitment to making a difference wherever their path takes them.”
“It has truly been a pleasure getting to work with Vienna from the Commission’s inception up until now. Leading an organization of this size and magnitude is no easy task. As chair, I know that more than anyone. It has been nothing short of wonderful getting to watch them blossom in this role and be so steadfast in their willingness to fight for Delaware’s LGBTQ+ youth,” said LGBTQ+ Commission Chair Cora Castle (she/her).
“Vienna is truly a dedicated leader, and I thank them for their service to this Commission and to Delaware. I feel I have learned just as much from them as they have from me, and I look forward to continuing to work with them as an ex officio member following their departure. I know their future is bright and I wish them all the best.”
Following Vice-Chair Cavazos’ departure, the LGBTQ+ Commission will be left with 13 Commissioners.