The following is a statement released by Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, releases statement on the passing of former Mayor Thomas Menino.
“Tom Menino was the best friend the LGBT community could ever hope to have in a Mayor of a major US city.
From his years as a city councilor to his many years as Mayor, Tom Menino supported us on every issue and concern of the LGBT community. He consistently offered to help us in every way he could and in every venue (the legislature, the public, the courts, the city council, etc).
Menino had a long and impressive record on LGBT issues dating back to the ‘80s on issues ranging from:
- His appointments to his campaigns and to city hall.
- His support on issues including
- the Gay and Lesbian Civil Rights Bill
- to Anti-Gay Foster Care measures
- to HIV / AIDS issues
- to Marriage Equality
- to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade
- to Hate Crimes
- to Chick-Fil-A
Like the rest of the city, the LGBT community lost a wonderful friend today. But the example he set for other elected officials dealing with LGBT concerns will live on for decades to come. He will be deeply missed.
Our hearts go out to his family.”