Gabriel Acevero

Gabriel Acevero is a Trinidadian-American politician and activist currently serving as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing the 39th district. A member of the Democratic Party and the Democratic Socialists of America, Acevero is recognized for his advocacy on various social issues, including LGBTQ rights, labor rights, and criminal justice reform. He made history in 2018 by becoming the first openly gay Afro-Latino elected to the Maryland House of Delegates and one of the youngest individuals to hold this position.

Early life and career

Gabriel Acevero was born on October 23, 1990, in San Fernando, Trinidad, as the youngest of six children. His family heritage includes Afro-Venezuelan roots from his father’s side and Afro-Trinidadian lineage from his mother. Acevero spent his early years in Couva, a town in Trinidad, where he attended Richmond Street Boys Anglican School in Port-of-Spain. He graduated from Couva Government Secondary School in 2007, where he actively participated in the school's debate team, showcasing his early interest in public discourse and advocacy.

In 2007, Acevero's family immigrated to the United States, settling in Maryland. He began his college education at the age of 16, first earning an associate degree in international relations from Montgomery College. He then pursued a bachelor's degree in political science at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), which he completed in 2011 at the age of 20. During his time in college, Acevero was involved in student activism, volunteering for various political campaigns, and engaging with the Maryland Democratic Party, which laid the groundwork for his future political career.

Legislative service

Gabriel Acevero's political career began with significant involvement in grassroots activism. After completing his education, he worked as an issue organizer on various campaigns, including the Maryland Dream Act and Marriage Equality initiatives in 2012. These efforts contributed to Maryland becoming the first state to approve both measures through a ballot initiative. His activism continued with a focus on transgender rights and criminal justice reform, particularly following the unrest in Baltimore in 2015 after the death of Freddie Gray. Acevero was a prominent figure in the Black Lives Matter movement and participated in protests advocating for police reform.

In 2017, Acevero was part of a coalition that organized a campaign for a $15 minimum wage in Montgomery County, which successfully passed and was signed into law. He also garnered attention for his efforts to rename a Rockville elementary school in honor of civil rights leader Bayard Rustin, emphasizing the importance of LGBTQ representation in education.

Acevero's entry into electoral politics came when he ran for a seat in the Maryland House of Delegates in the 39th district, which encompasses parts of Gaithersburg, Germantown, Clarksburg, Montgomery Village, and Washington Grove. He won the Democratic primary in June 2018, defeating incumbent delegates in a competitive race. Acevero faced minimal opposition from the Republican party in the general election and was elected on November 6, 2018. He was sworn into office on January 9, 2019, taking his oath on a copy of James Baldwin's book, "The Fire Next Time."

As a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, Acevero serves on the House Appropriations Committee and is affiliated with several legislative caucuses, including the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus, the Latino Legislative Caucus, and the Montgomery County Delegation. His legislative work has included supporting various initiatives and participating in rallies, such as one in December 2019 advocating for the impeachment of then-President Donald Trump.

In the 2020 Democratic presidential primaries, Acevero endorsed Senator Bernie Sanders and later expressed dissent against President Joe Biden's policies during the 2024 primaries, urging voters to consider an "Uncommitted" protest vote. Despite facing challenges from fellow Democrats in the 2022 primary, Acevero successfully secured reelection. However, in October 2025, he encountered another primary challenge from a colleague, indicating ongoing competition within his party.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his legislative career, Gabriel Acevero has focused on a range of policy issues, particularly those related to social justice, economic equity, and public health. His support for cannabis legalization is notable; in 2022, he voted in favor of a constitutional amendment for adult use and possession of cannabis. However, he also expressed concerns regarding the racial equity aspects of cannabis reform legislation, emphasizing the need for measures that ensure minority ownership in the cannabis industry.

Acevero introduced his own legislation aimed at cannabis legalization and regulation, reflecting his commitment to addressing the complexities of this issue. His advocacy extends beyond cannabis, as he has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of marginalized communities in Maryland.

As a representative of the 39th district, Acevero's work is informed by the diverse needs of his constituents, which include urban and suburban populations. His legislative priorities often align with the interests of his district, focusing on economic development, education, and social equity. Acevero's background as an organizer and activist continues to shape his approach to governance, as he seeks to address systemic issues affecting his community.

In summary, Gabriel Acevero's journey from Trinidad to the Maryland House of Delegates exemplifies a commitment to public service and advocacy for underrepresented communities. His legislative work and activism reflect a dedication to social justice, economic equity, and the promotion of inclusive policies that resonate with the values of his constituents.