Marie Newman isn’t just an advocate—she’s a fighter. As a former Congresswoman from Illinois, she took on big fights for LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare equity, gun reform, and more. But her mission became personal when her daughter came out as transgender, propelling her even deeper into the fight for equality.
In this episode, Marie shares her unexpected path to Congress, the struggles of passing meaningful legislation, and why she refuses to back down—even as anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric ramps up across the U.S. and beyond. She also opens up about her family’s journey, the reality of raising a trans child in today’s political climate, and what we can all do to push back against the attacks on our rights.
🔥 Nobody is coming to save us—we have to be the ones to step up. 🔥
🏳️🌈Thanks to our sponsor California Cryobank! Thinking of growing your queer family? Use code LOVEISLOVE at cryobank.com for a FREE Level 2 subscription to their donor catalog!
🏳️🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages here.
🏳️🌈 🎧 Loved this episode? Support The Queer Family Podcast on Patreon for exclusive bonus content & help keep these stories alive!
🏳️🌈 Key Takeaways 🏳️🌈
- ✔️ How Marie’s fight for LGBTQ+ rights began—and why she made it her mission
- ✔️ Her journey to Congress & the challenges of passing real change
- ✔️ Raising a trans child & navigating the medical & legal system
- ✔️ The dangerous rollback of trans rights & DEI policies
- ✔️ How to get involved and push back against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation
🏳️🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️🌈
- Marie Newman is a former U.S. Congresswoman from Illinois who built a career fighting for marginalized communities. Before politics, she worked in marketing, anti-bullying activism, and women’s rights advocacy. She’s also the author of A Life Made From Scratch, a powerful memoir about her journey. As the mother of a trans daughter, Marie has dedicated her career to creating a more inclusive world.
- 📖 Preorder her book, "A Life Made From Scratch," here
🏳️🌈Resources mentioned in the episode:
🏳️🌈🎧 Loved this episode?
Leave a review & support The Queer Family Podcast on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!
🏳️🌈 💬 What resonated most with you?
Drop a comment, DM us, or email at thequeerfamilypodcast@gmail.com—we love hearing your stories!
🏳️🌈 📲 Let’s Connect!
Follow us on IG, TikTok, Bluesky, & YouTube: @thequeerfamilypodcast
🏳️🌈🎥 Watch & Listen:
📺 Watch full video episodes on YouTube
📖 Order the #ITOCT book on Amazon, IndieBound, or Audible
🎶 Edited by: Jerson Barajas
🎵 Theme song by: Tiffany Topol
🎨 Logo art by: Daneen Stevenato
🛍️ Shop our merch here
📜 Full transcript & more info on our website
✊ Put your activism into action
🗳️ Vote, donate, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights
📢 Call your representatives—let them know we won’t stand for discrimination
💡 Educate yourself & others on policies affecting our community
History is watching. What we do now matters.
The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. While we chat with amazing organizations, The Queer Family Podcast isn’t responsible for any decisions or actions taken by listeners based on the content of the show. Always consult with a trusted professional for your specific situation!
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com
Advertising Inquiries:
https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out:
https://redcircle.com/privacy
