Illinois Rep. Greg Harris (D-13) hosted a young professionals fundraiser at the Boystown nightspot Sidetrack Oct. 12. One of three openly gay state legislators, Harris was the chief sponsor of Illinois' civil-unions bill.
Harris urged guests to remain vigilant and continue organizing. He stressed that budget woes in Illinois could lead to reduced funding for healthcare and anti-bullying efforts.
"You've seen the backlash in other states," Harris said. "We've seen Prop 8 in California, where a ballot initiative took away people's rights. [In Iowa] Supreme Court justices who decided in favor of lesbian and gay rights were thrown out of office in the following election. … In Illinois, we're winning, but this is not an accident. It's not luck. It's due to hard work."
About 100 people attended the two-hour event. Although the audience was mostly male, state Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-14)another of the General Assembly's LGBT contingentwas a notable attendee; Harris welcomed her in his speech and thanked her for progressive House votes.
Sidetrack co-owner Art Johnston and Lesbian and Gay Bar Association President John Litchfield introduced Harris, who has served Illinois' 13th House District since 2007. Harris announced in August 2011 he would again seek re-election.
Before heading out to a second fundraiser, Harris shared with the crowd his hopes for the future.
"We have to make happen what's going to be the civil rights accomplishment of our day," Harris said, "and that is full marriage equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender peoplenot only in Illinois, but in this entire country."