More than 100 people gathered at Andersonville's Mary's Attic July 7 to kick off state Rep. Kelly Cassidy's campaign for 2012.
Cassidy was appointed to the 14th District seat this past spring to replace Harry Osterman, who was elected 48th ward alderman for the city of Chicago—thus making this an election instead of a re-election launch.
Carol Ronen—committeeman of the 48th Ward Democratic Party and former state representative of the 14th District—introduced Cassidy: "I'm so pleased with the job that Kelly has done in the short time she has been in the legislature. It's very gratifying to see the overwhelming support she has received from all corners of the district. I'm looking forward to working with Equality Illinois, The Civil Rights Agenda and all the other public officials that are supporting Kelly to get her elected next March."
Cassidy, one of three out gay members of the state House (in addition to Greg Harris and Deb Mell), thanked Equality Illinois and The Civil Rights Agenda.
"I was so flattered to receive the appointment and am even more energized and encouraged now ... to the day I left for Springfield and ever since I have been supported, encouraged and cheered," Cassidy continued. "You are worth fighting for. I am not going to stop and with all of your support and with your feet on the sidewalk in the winter we are going to win this next year. The three most important reasons I do this are for the most incredible boys on the planet: my sons Joshua, Daniel and Ethan."
A number of other luminaries from state and local government along with community leaders came to lend their support to Cassidy's campaign.
Harris said, "As we struggle to keep our neighborhoods vibrant and growing and given that two of the biggest issues families face, education and public safety, are at the forefront of everyone's thoughts Kelly is going to bring a unique perspective to the state legislature as a mom and a public safety professional."
"Kelly has hit the ground running. She has the fortitude and experience to fight for our neediest citizens. Her strength of character makes her a strong presence in Springfield," said state Sen. Heather Steans.
Mell added, "Kelly is a passionate advocate for her community and will work tirelessly for her district. I am thrill to work with her."
"I'm here to support Kelly and I'm going to be working really hard to get her elected," said Cook County Assessor Joe Berrios.
For more information on Cassidy, visit www.ilga.gov/house/Rep.asp. To find out about her campaign, visit the "Citizens for Kelly Cassidy" page on Facebook.
