As reported by a number of media outlets including Media Matters, the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, and others; Minnesota Republican Senate candidate Royce White has a lengthy and troubling history of anti-LGBTQ+, antisemitic, ableist, and misogynistic comments. White was recently endorsed on the first convention ballot as the Minnesota GOP’s challenger to Senator Amy Klobuchar.

As organizations advocating for and supporting our state’s diverse communities, we condemn this troubling history of harmful rhetoric in the strongest terms. And we urge Royce White to apologize for his past behavior and engage in meaningful repair with the communities he has harmed.

When candidates or public officials use harmful and discriminatory language they legitimize dangerous false narratives and give voice to hate in all of our communities. At a time when many of our state’s marginalized communities are seeing an uptick in discrimination and threats of violence, it is essential that we speak up. 

OutFront Minnesota’s Executive Director Kat Rohn adds, “Anti-LGBTQ+ hate is on the rise, even here in Minnesota, where just in the past year we have experienced major acts of violence against community. Our organization hears daily from LGBTQ+ people affected by discrimination and violence and we are concerned that when candidates for public office engage in this kind of rhetoric that they give permission to bullies at every level. LGBTQ+ people are in every community in this state and we will continue to stand up alongside our shared communities to condemn this harmful rhetoric.” 

Beth Gendler, Executive Director at Jewish Community Action adds, "When politicians use antisemitism to sow division and fear, it puts all of us at risk. We will always stand in solidarity and in community against the dangerous rhetoric that fuels the machinery of hate and violence."

Megan Peterson, executive director at Gender Justice, said: “Discriminatory rhetoric from public figures not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also endangers the very fabric of our inclusive society. In Minnesota, we pride ourselves on valuing diversity and championing equality. Royce White’s history of divisive comments undermines these values and threatens the safety and dignity of our communities. We call on Royce White to apologize for his past remarks and take meaningful action to repair the harm he has caused.”

Elianne Farhat, executive director at TakeAction Minnesota adds, “At TakeAction Minnesota, we believe in a world where everyone can live full, healthy, safe, and joyful lives. Royce White’s anti-LGBTQ+, antisemitic, ableist, and misogynistic comments are wrong and dangerous. He owes Minnesotans an apology and commitment to repair as he seeks one of the highest offices in our state.” 

 

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