KUT Interview: Former Equality Texas CEO Says Progress Made But Work Remains On LGBTQ Issues

Chuck Smith joined Equality Texas in 2003 as a volunteer and helped out at their annual Lobby Day at the state capitol. Equality Texas is an organization that, in its own words, “works to secure full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Texans.” Just about 15 years later – last December – Smith stepped down as CEO. He talked recently with KUT's Jennifer Stayton about the changes he has seen over his time with Equality Texas and the work that still remains. Smith started by describing the “one step forward, two steps back” nature of the progress of rights for people in Texas and around the country who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.