Springfield, IL - The Civil Rights Agenda ( TCRA ) , Illinois' leading advocacy group for LGBT civil rights, is proud to welcome Illinois' newest Representative, Kelly Cassidy ( District 14 ) , whose official Springfield swearing-in took place at 2:50pm in the Illinois Supreme Court building. With a small group of LGBT leaders looking on, Illinois Supreme Court Justice Mary Jane Theis swore Cassidy in ( photos attached ) . Representative Cassidy becomes the third openly gay or lesbian legislator in the Illinois General Assembly.
Those in attendance were TCRA's Anthony Martinez and Lowell Jaffe, Activist Rick Garcia, Chicago political leader Michael Bauer, and Avon Township Supervisor Sam Yingling.
"Standing in the Supreme Court with a small group of LGBT leaders, I felt the significance of Kelly's appointment," said Anthony Martinez Executive Director for The Civil Rights Agenda. "Not long ago, having an openly gay or lesbian legislator would have been unthinkable. Now, Illinois has three -- and the first LGBT legislator with children."
Once on the floor of the House of Representatives, Representative Greg Harris, as a point of personal privilege, stood and introduced his district mate, Representative Cassidy, as his "close personal friend for years." Once introduced, Representative Cassidy addressed the House. "It is a personal honor and privilege to serve with all of you here. I am excited to start working. and as my father always told me, I plan to lead with two ears and follow with my mouth, because one should listen more than one speaks."
"I've known Kelly for years," said Activist Rick Garcia, "Springfield, the House, can be difficult to navigate. But Kelly has the experience to hit the ground running. Her district and LGBT people throughout the State are lucky to have her."
TCRA is sponsoring a reception to honor Representative Cassidy this evening at The State House Inn in Springfield.
About The Civil Rights Agenda
The Civil Rights Agenda ( TCRA ) continues the fight for individual rights through coalition building and leadership, supporting communities with the necessary tools that will equip them with the resources and confidence to establish equality for all persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Please find us online at www.jointcra.org or email us at info@jointcra.org .