TO SAY it is significant that the DUP is running the party's first ever openly gay election candidate is an understatement.
The DUP is well-known for its history of hostility towards LGBT people.
'Save Ulster from Sodomy'; the 'gay blood' ban; blocking same-sex marriage; blaming gay people for Hurricane Katrina – the list is long and bizarre.
At every turn in the continuing campaign for LGBT equality, the DUP has appeared to be on the opposing side. While other parties have moved with the public mood, the DUP has remained stubbornly intransigent.
However, this small but historic step is hugely positive progress which would appear to show that, slowly, the DUP is willing to change.
It is by no means the case that everyone in the DUP is 'anti-gay' – far from it. Behind the scenes, some members have been lobbying for a more open and inclusive DUP.
It's understood senior members were well aware of Allison Bennington's sexuality when she was chosen as an Antrim and Newtownabbey council election candidate.
With its membership comprising of many evangelical Christians, it should be recognised that this shift will not have been easy for the party.
This might explain why, while other parties proudly promote their LGBT inclusiveness, the DUP has so far let this moment pass without fanfare.
Ms Bennington agreed to speak to The Irish News at yesterday's manifesto launch, but after hushed discussions with a party press officer, she promptly left following leaders' speeches.
She last night issued a statement saying she has put herself before the electorate "based on what I can deliver for them as a councillor.. not based on my sexual orientation".
Ms Bennington deserves much praise. As the DUP's first openly gay politician, she may face difficult questions from some within her party.
There will also be many questions from the media: How can you represent a party that has displayed such derision towards LGBT people in the past? Should the DUP apologise for its past behaviour? Do you support same-sex marriage?
But for now her bravery – and the willingness of the DUP to change for the better – should be universally welcomed.
