Gay Chicago Magazine

Neighborhood: Edgewater

Job or career: Director of Public Policy, Equality Illinois

Is this your life’s work or just a job? It is my life’s work and my passion.

How did you get into this line of work? I came to Chicago in 1986 to work for Mayor Harold Washington. I got involved in the work to pass Chicago’s Human Rights Ordinance. One thing lead to another and I co-founded Equality Illinois and became our original executive director and now director of public policy

What do you like about this job/career? I like that we have been able to make concrete, tangible changes for the betterment of LGBT Illinoisans. It is challenging but extremely rewarding.

Where do you see yourself, career-wise, in 10 years? Probably doing the same thing and maybe preparing to retire from it.

Any fun perks to this job/career? I get to travel around the state a whole lot as well as travel throughout the country. Also, I get to work with some very talented and committed people.

Any downsides to this job/career? I have to deal with some dreadful politicians and anti-gay lunatics.

Did you go to school for this job/career? Not really. My educational background is in theology - that’s kind of a distance from politics.

What’s your background? I am a native St. Louisan. Totally nun-trained. Catholic grade school, high school and college. Have been a gay rights activist for well over twenty-five years. Have a partner and a dog.

Do you belong to any organizations or groups in your spare time? I don’t. I’m pretty consumed with Equality Illinois.

Do you like to travel? I travel a lot with work and I do like to travel.

Where is your favorite vacation spot? Toss up between Miami Beach and Santa Fe.

What do you like to do on your vacation? Absolutely nothing! Just hang out.

Do you have any hobbies? The closest thing I have to a hobby is I cook and kind of collect nun memorabilia.

What do you like about these hobbies? They are relaxing and take my mind off of my work.

What’s your latest project? My latest project is to pass a state wide civil union bill in Illinois and to continue building support for equal marriage rights.

How did this project come about? After we passed the statewide nondiscrimination bill in 2005 we focused our sight on relationship recognition and protections for same-sex couples.

What inspires/excites/interests you about this project? I believe everyone should be treated fairly and equitably under the law – nothing more and nothing less. I know a victory in the legislature is possible and it is exciting to be part of that victory of justice for all.

One wish for yourself? I wish that I would be more aware of how truly blessed and fortunate I am.

One wish for others? That they be proud of who they are and live their lives with dignity and pride.

Lindsay may be e-mailed at lcharvat@gaychimag.com.

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