Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson Appoints Antonio King First-ever Director Of LGBTQ+ Affairs

CHICAGO ~ Chicago has made history today as Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the appointment of Antonio King as the City's first Director of LGBTQ+ Affairs. This groundbreaking move solidifies Chicago as the largest U.S. city to have an executive-level position dedicated to advancing LGBTQ+ equity.

Mayor Johnson expressed his pride in welcoming King to this new role, stating that it demonstrates his administration's commitment to supporting and investing in Chicago's LGBTQ+ community. He also emphasized the importance of having LGBTQ+ representation at the highest levels of City government, especially in light of increasing attacks from the Trump administration.

In his new role, King will be responsible for guiding the Johnson administration's initiatives and programs serving the LGBTQ+ community. This includes ensuring equitable attention and support for LGBTQ+ owned businesses and coordinating efforts across City departments and agencies to uplift LGTBQ+ Chicagoans. As part of the Mayor's Office of Health and Human Services, King will also work closely with the Mayor's policy team to develop a plan that strengthens protections and opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals.

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King expressed his gratitude for Mayor Johnson's appointment and his continued support for the LGBTQ+ community in Chicago. He also highlighted his commitment to bringing visibility and accessibility for all members of the community, including trans individuals, youth, and aging adults. King sees this role as an opportunity to provide valuable feedback from the community while formulating a policy plan that will further support their needs.

With over two decades of experience at the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), King has demonstrated a strong dedication to HIV/AIDS health education and prevention. During his time at CDPH, he spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at improving the health and wellness of LGBTQ+ individuals. He also established crucial partnerships with various health, business, social service, and cultural agencies to address quality of life issues, marriage equality, and public health challenges.

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King's contributions extend beyond his work at CDPH. As a founding member of the Chicago Black Gay Men's Caucus and a program manager at Howard Brown Health, he has been instrumental in establishing outreach, testing, and prevention programs tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in Black and minority communities. He has also been a key figure in the Continental Pageantry System in Chicago for two decades, providing a platform for LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves authentically and proudly.

For his unwavering efforts and dedication to the LGBTQ+ community, King was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in 2024. This recognition speaks to his impact and influence within the community.

With this historic appointment, Chicago is taking a significant step towards promoting equity and inclusivity for all its residents. King's experience and passion make him well-equipped to lead this new role and continue advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals in the city.

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