Tim Walz: From LGBTQ+ Ally Teacher to Presidential Running Mate
Tim Walz, now Minnesota's governor and a presidential running mate, was once a high school teacher who championed LGBTQ+ rights. His early support left a lasting impact on students' lives.
In the late 1990s, long before his political career, Tim Walz was a high school teacher in southern Minnesota who made a significant impact on his students, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community. His unwavering support for these students, at a time when such acceptance was uncommon, has left a lasting legacy.
Tim Walz and his wife Gwen created an inclusive environment at Mankato West High School, where they taught. Their approach was particularly meaningful for students like Jacob Reitan, who was struggling with his sexual orientation. Reitan, now 42 and a lawyer, recalls the profound effect of Gwen Walz's declaration that her classroom was a safe space for gay students.
"My heart was beating out of my chest"
Inspired by the Walzes' support, Reitan founded the school's first gay-straight alliance (GSA) in 2000. Tim Walz became the GSA's faculty adviser, a bold move that sent a strong message of acceptance throughout the school.
The GSA faced challenges, including opposition from some students and parents during a human rights-focused week. However, Walz's steadfast support encouraged the group to persevere. Laura Matson, a straight ally in the GSA, remembers Walz's reassuring words: "Some people just don't understand, and that's okay. We'll keep doing what we're doing and raise awareness."
Walz's influence extended beyond the GSA. Kris Breyer, another straight student in the group, credits Walz with modeling inclusivity and respect for diverse interests. Micah Kronlokken, who started at Mankato West in 2001, found comfort in knowing there were supportive teachers like the Walzes, even before he came out.
The impact of Tim and Gwen Walz's support has been long-lasting. Many former students, including Amanda Hinkle, now a theater educator, cite the Walzes as significant influences on their life paths and careers.
In a full-circle moment, Reitan, who became an LGBTQ+ activist, attended the 2010 signing of the bill repealing the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy alongside Tim Walz, then a member of the House of Representatives.
Today, Tim Walz serves as the 41st governor of Minnesota and is the running mate of Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris. His journey from a supportive high school teacher to a prominent political figure underscores the enduring impact of early allyship and the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights over the past quarter-century.
