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McKeon memorial at Chicago's Truman College June 14
2008-06-01
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This article shared 3373 times since Sun Jun 1, 2008
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A memorial for the late gay politician/activist Larry McKeon will be held Sat., June 14, at 11 a.m. at Truman College's Community Room, 1145 W. Wilson.
McKeon, 63, died Tues., May 13, of a stroke. He made history in 1996 when he was elected to the Illinois House, becoming the state's first openly gay ( as well as its first HIV-positive ) state legislator. He represented the North Side's 13th District—which was the 34th prior to redistricting in 2002—until 2007. McKeon announced his retirement in 2006; his health was failing due to battles with HIV and cancer.
McKeon is recognized for many achievements, including his contributions to an amendment to the Illinois Human Rights Act, which was passed in 2005. The amendment, which took 30 years to pass, banned discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in areas such as housing and employment.
RSVPs to the memorial are not required, but are requested. Attire is casual. To RSVP or for more information, e-mail McKeonFriends@gmail.com .
In lieu of flowers, people can make donations to the McKeon Memorial Community Fund, 2300 W. Lawrence, Chicago, Ill., 60625.
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This article shared 3373 times since Sun Jun 1, 2008
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