Harris sworn in for first full term

Harris sworn in for first full term
Copyright by Gay Chicago Magazine
January 16, 2007

SPRINGFIELD, IL - State Rep. Greg Harris (D-Chicago) was recently sworn into the 95th General Assembly as representative of the 13th District.

“It is an honor and a privilege to serve the residents of the 13th District,” Harris said. “I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues in the General Assembly to pass effective and fair legislation for everyone throughout the state.”
Originally appointed to finish out retired State Rep. Larry McKeon, Harris was elected to his first full term this past November. For 14 years, he served as chief of staff to Ald. Mary Ann Smith in the 48th Ward, and is now serving in his first elected position.

Harris, the only openly gay legislator in the General Assembly, has been an active member of the community in the Chicagoland area for many years. He was the founder and first board president of Open Hand Chicago and AIDS Walk Chicago. He has been honored for his work in the community by groups such as the Uptown Chamber of Commerce, AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Chicago House and Social Service Agency and Human Rights Campaign, where he shared the Equality award with Mayor Daley for their work on a domestic partner ordinance in Chicago.

“My goals for the upcoming year are to focus on the issues of affordable housing, quality and affordable healthcare, as well as economic development,” Harris said. “I know that the job will be difficult at times, but I am committed to being a strong advocate for my district in Springfield.”

The 13th legislative district includes the Chicago neighborhoods of Uptown, Ravenswood, Lincoln Square, North Center and Bowmanville.