Gay Rights Activist; half of first same-sex couple to marry in Illinois. Although the law did not go into effect until June, Ms. Gray and her partner sued to be able to marry early because she was dying. A federal judge granted their request. Ms Gray spent many years working for gay rights and advocated for same-sex marriage long before others even felt it was possible. While liberals came to her side easily, in order to bring conservatives as well, she made a case for Social Security survivor benefits being awarded to her partner upon her death. Ms Gray worked for the Cook County Illinois' attorney's office for eighteen years, passionately aiding crime victims and witnesses. She was praised by many, including President Obama and Mayor Emanuel of Chicago, for her tireless work for equality and civil rights. In praising Ms Gray, Mayor Emanuel stated: "Her legacy can be felt in the many institutions she supported and by every couple in Illinois who is now free to marry the person they love." Vernita Gray is a member of the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame.
Gay Rights Activist; half of first same-sex couple to marry in Illinois. Although the law did not go into effect until June, Ms. Gray and her partner sued to be able to marry early because she was dying. A federal judge granted their request. Ms Gray spent many years working for gay rights and advocated for same-sex marriage long before others even felt it was possible. While liberals came to her side easily, in order to bring conservatives as well, she made a case for Social Security survivor benefits being awarded to her partner upon her death. Ms Gray worked for the Cook County Illinois' attorney's office for eighteen years, passionately aiding crime victims and witnesses. She was praised by many, including President Obama and Mayor Emanuel of Chicago, for her tireless work for equality and civil rights. In praising Ms Gray, Mayor Emanuel stated: "Her legacy can be felt in the many institutions she supported and by every couple in Illinois who is now free to marry the person they love." Vernita Gray is a member of the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame.
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