Remove Senator Theresa Manzella from the State Legislature for encouraging violence

Content warning: Violence against LGBTQ2S+ people 

On June 10, 2023, Montana state Senator Teresa Manzella posted a meme on Facebook encouraging violence against the LGBTQ2S+ community and drag performers in particular. The post has since been censored because of its violent graphic content and call to violence. 

Prominent people who reacted to the post are: 

• Sen. Bob Brown (R-Trout Creek), liked 

  Rep. Bob Phalen (R-Lindsay), liked 

• Sen. Barry Usher (R-Billings), gasp reaction 

• Alba Pimental from the anti-public school extremist group Moms for Liberty, laugh reaction 

Senator Manzella’s call to violence is a stark contrast to the statements of Representative Zooey Zephyr (D-Missoula), who asked fellow legislators to reject anti-LGBTQ2S+ legislation due to deep and lasting harm that she knew it would cause LGBTQ2S+ Montanans at many points in their daily lives. Instead of respecting Rep. Zephyr’s warning, GOP legislators instead voted to censure her and attempted to prevent her from working in public spaces in the Capitol. The GOP’s actions were condemned throughout Montana and the nation.  

“Apparently the already escalating violence against the LGBTQ2S+ and particularly trans and drag communities is not enough for Manzella. Instead of letting her votes speak for themselves, she called for further violence against LGBTQ2S+ Montanans,” said Shawn Reagor, Director of Equality at the Montana Human Rights Network. “It is crucial for Montanans to demand accountability for this horrific and inexcusable call to violence. It is equally important to show our commitment for all Montanans to be free to live their lives without fear of violence.” 

Please sign this petition from MHRN that calls for Manzella’s removal from office due  to her violent post. We plan to deliver the petition to legislators to remind them that they will be held accountable for encouraging violence toward LGBTQ2s+ Montanans. 

Despite increases in threats, hostile rhetoric, and violence, Montana has seen a Pride month with more local events, bigger crowds, and more financial support than ever before. Click here to find a Pride event in your area this summer!