Michael S.C. Soto is the President of Equality Arizona, the state’s leading LGBTQ+ civil rights organization with a 30-year legacy. A long-time advocate, Michael has served Equality Arizona in roles ranging from intern to CEO, driving its mission to provide an inclusive political home for LGBTQ+ Arizonans and allies. Michael's work is focused on the local politics of red and purple states where he has seen pluralism and liberty for all exist in real life.  Michael is currently pursuing a PhD at ASU, where he studies pluralism as a remedy for political polarization. Michael is committed to creating inclusive, community-driven solutions that foster mutual respect and demonstrate how local action can address even the world’s most complex challenges.