Members of the gay community met Sept. 20 to discuss David Hoffman's candidacy for the United States Senate and his position regarding LGBT-related issues. The event was held at the residence of Soo Choi, a former employee of Hoffman.
The evening began with Hoffman mingling around the crowd speaking personally with attendees before he formally spoke on his political ideals and stand on gay issues, among other things.
"I'm in favor of gay marriage," said Hoffman. "I think that the other alternatives that have been offered are poor, second-class alternatives. It is about equality, nothing else. I think that Iowa sent a very important signal to people, and regardless of whether it's going to change quickly or not, that's the position I'm going to take, because I know it's the right answer and I'm ready to fight for it."
Hoffman continued to speak about the unfairness in tax filing for gay versus straight couples and how marriage equality should not only be tackled state-by-state but also at the federal level.
"I'm married to a woman, we have at two-year-old. I get very tangible benefits when I file my taxes. To me it is fundamentally unfair that folks whose sexual orientation is different than mine but are in absolutely the same kind of relationships can't get those same financial benefits. The federal tax code needs to be changed to reflect that," said Hoffman.
Those in attendance varied from the politically involved to novices.
"I definitely was inspired by [ Hoffman ] ," said Jeremy Miñano, 27, a real estate developer. "He, I feel, will have a really profound impact on Illinois and I definitely am going to support and spread the word about him. His speech was very impressive, and very touching. I think that he will definitely do what is right for Illinois."
Previous to his announcement of candidacy, Hoffman worked as inspector general for the City of Chicago. He set up a 1-800 number for people to anonymously report corruption within the government.
"I always admired what he did in the inspector general's office. That part of his personality, and what he's looking to do, I'm a fan," said Lorin Adolph, 45, a chef.
Before his position as inspector general, Hoffman worked as an assistant U.S. attorney in Chicago. He graduated from Yale University in history and the University of Chicago Law School in law.
"Having worked with David as long as I have, I know that he does his research and gets to know whatever issue he's dealing with fully. He not only gets to know it really well but he gets to know the others side and he forms an opinion based on all the information," said Choi, 35. "When he takes a position, it's sincere."
Aside from his stance on LGBT issues, Hoffman also spoke about fighting corruption, increasing transparency and needing to keep a Democrat in the Illinois seat.
President Clinton at
Chicago House event
Chicago House & Social Service Agency, the first organization in the Midwest to provide housing and support for people living with HIV and AIDS, will host its first-ever Speaker Series Luncheon Wed., Nov. 11, at the Palmer House Hilton, 17 E. Monroe, welcoming President Bill Clinton as the keynote speaker.
The luncheon will feature a speech from Clinton followed by a Q&A session inclusive of questions pre-submitted by members of the public, Chicago House supporters and event attendees.
The Annual Speaker Series Luncheon is a new endeavor for Chicago House and originated from a desire to raise awareness and education around the key issues of HIV/AIDS and homelessness, according to The Rev. Stan Sloan, Chicago House CEO.
Further information on the Chicago House Speaker Series Luncheon featuring President Bill Clinton can be found at www.chicagohouse.org . For tickets, call Rachell Gautz at 773-248-5200, ext. 303.
