Anthony Alfano, the DePaul University senior who is the first openly gay student-body president in the school's history, was honored Jan. 18 at Chicago City Council with a resolution honoring him introduced by 46th Ward Ald. James Cappleman.
Alfano, 21, who lives in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood, was congratulated by Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
"[Cappleman] said he thought it was important to introduce the resolution because he felt it was helping to open doors for our LGBT youth and other youth who are struggling with their identity," Alfano said. "I was very surprised, but very honored by the resolution. I am so grateful to have been able to do this in the first place and to be honored with a resolution helps to put it in perspective.
"I could not have received the resolution for coming out which would not have taken place without the love and support from my family and friends."
Alfano was joined at City Council by his DePaul advisor and close friend, Suzanne Kilgannon, "who has been an incredible source of inspiration and support," he said. In addition, his roommate, Ross Richmond (who is straight) joined him. In addition, Anthony Langone and Nina Falcone, close friends of Alfano, joined him.
"For me, it was honoring a commitment to our youth, LGBT or not, that as we get older and have experiences that we will stand up for those who do not have a voice," Alfano said. "To me, the resolution in City Council meant that more and more people are taking notice and standing with equality and against hatred.
"I was very excited to receive the honor, but also nervous as well. I've never received an honor like this before, and the backdrop of the City Council Chamber and all the aldermen added to the magnitude and weight of the resolution, and the emotions I had during the meeting."
Alfano said he met Emanuel only briefly, "but he congratulated me for receiving the honor, and he seemed genuinely happy that it was being introduced into City Council," he said.
