Judy Baar Topinka

Judy Baar Topinka Charitable Foundation

Media

Letter From Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot

We received a wonderful letter from Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s office recognizing Judy’s efforts for the LGBTQ community.

OFFICE OF THE MAYOR: CITY OF CHICAGO

Lori Lightfoot Letter

LORI E. LIGHTFOOT: MAYOR

March 17, 2021

Mr. Joseph Baar Topinka

Dear Mr. Topinka:

On behalf of the City of Chicago, I extend heartfelt gratitude to you for accepting this award on behalf of Judy Baar Topinka. It is an honor to welcome her into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame.

Judy Baar Topinka was a true friend to the LGBT community. During her time in the Illinois House of Representatives, the Illinois Senate, and as Illinois State Treasurer she fought for gay rights, supported the Illinois Marriage Equality Bill, opened her office to the Equality Illinois’ delegation during the group’s lobby days, and much more. She broke down barriers for generations and her legacy will always live on.

I am proud to welcome Judy Baar Topinka into this year’s distinguished Hall of Fame class.

View the letter

Joseph Baar Topinka preserves legacy of mother: Pro-gay Republican Judy

The Windy City Times posted a wonderful article about Judy’s unwavering support of the LGBTQ community.

“Jeepers, gay people are people,” Judy told Windy City Times just prior to her 2014 re-election. “There’s rights under the constitution—everybody’s supposed to have them—and it bugs me when folks pick on gays or anybody else. I have a lot of gay people working in my office; they’re wonderful employees. We don’t single them out, or anything; they’re just part of the family.”

Read the Full Article

Karen Conti Show 3/3/19

Karen Conti and Joe Topinka in the studio

Joe Topinka, J.D., M.B.A., M.H.A. appears on the Karen Conti show with fellow guest Dr. Jennifer Lawless, a professor at the University of Virginia! They discuss the anticipation of the city of Chicago’s first African-American female mayor. How will a woman conduct herself and govern differently in this prestigious position?

Listen Here

Karen Conti and Joe Topinka