Chicago elects its first gay Latino alderman, Carlos Rosa

*While we were all watching Chuy Garcia embarrass Rahm Enamuel, this was also happening in Chicago. Two good stories for Latinos in Chi-town. VL

By Gerals Farinas, Chicago Phoenix

Carlos Ramirez-Rosa will become the newest openly gay Chicago alderman.

Rosa, a 25-year old community activist booted incumbent Ald. Rey Colon to represent the 35th Ward.

Ald. Colon has had a controversial tenure in the Chicago City Council. He faced allegations of public corruption—despite having served on the City Council’s ethics committee.

In 2010, Ald. Colon was accused of using his zoning responsibilities for his own profit. That same year, he was investigated for not disclosing campaign donations.

An organizer for Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, Rosa will move forward with the distinction of being the first openly gay Latino to run for—and win—a race for Chicago alderman.

Click HERE to read the full story.

[Photo courtesy of Chicago Phoenix]