Larson faced transphobic attacks just days before the election
Washington, DC – LGBTQ Victory Fund endorsed candidate Kristal Larson won her election for Avon Township Clerk last night and became the first out trans person ever elected to a non-judicial position in Illinois history. She is also just the second out trans person to ever win election in the state, the first being Jill Rose Quinn in her race for Circuit Court of Cook County last year. Larson faced a transphobic attack in the lead-up to election night, when an Avon Township supervisor distributed a flyer using her deadname. The flyer encouraged voters to oppose her election.
Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Fund, released the following statement about Larson’s victory:
“Kristal won this election because she knows her community well and will be a committed public servant, but the impact of her victory will extend far beyond the borders of Avon Township. At a time when trans people are under constant attack by politicians who weaponize hate for political gain, Kristal’s victory will counter their bigoted narrative and help transform perceptions of who trans people are. Kristal will become a role model and inspiration for many trans people who too rarely see themselves in positions of power. Her victory is a reminder that despite the anti-trans rhetoric from politicians, voters believe trans people can make great elected leaders.”
Larson previously won election as an Avon Township Trustee, however she was not out as trans at the time.
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LGBTQ Victory Fund
LGBTQ Victory Fund works to achieve and sustain equality by increasing the number of openly LGBTQ elected officials at all levels of government while ensuring they reflect the diversity of those they serve.
