Brady-Davis initially joined the MWRD in 2023 when Illinois Governor JB Pritzker appointed her to fill a vacancy. After winning her election, she will serve two more years in the role.“Eighteen months ago, when Gov. JB Pritzker appointed me to serve, I knew this was the beginning of a full democratic process,” Brady-Davis said after being sworn in, according to the Windy City Times. “Now, after completing an election cycle and winning a two-year term, I will be forever grateful to Gov. Pritzker for the opportunity he bestowed upon me”
Brady-Davis was one of four commissioners sworn in at the event. Marcelino Garcia, Kari Steele, and Sharon Waller also joined the board for full six-year terms.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias described Brady-Davis as a “trailblazer” who has fought for environmental, social, and economic justice.
“It weighs extra heavy on me, especially given the political climate, but I believe that when people see themselves reflected in the arc of history, they say, ‘I can be that too,’” Brady-Davis said. “And while being trans is one part of me, it is not all of me. I feel like I’m debunking stereotypes, and I hope that my representation shows that trans people are valuable members of society.”
Brady-Davis brings experience in social justice, environmental advocacy, and nonprofit leadership to the role. She works as Chief Strategy Officer at the Center on Halsted, an LGBTQ+ community center, and previously worked as a communications director for the Sierra Club.
Looking ahead, Brady-Davis is focused on addressing the MWRD’s challenges, including aging infrastructure, climate change, and water protection.
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Meet the First Black Trans Woman Elected to Chicago's Cook County Office
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