LID Board Member Crystal Hudson has made history as the 1st openly gay First Deputy Public Advocate.

Crystal, a fierce advocate for the rights of women, LGBTQ+ individuals and the the elderly, brings over a decade of experience in operations, strategic planning, marketing and advertising to the Public Advocate’s office. As First Deputy Public Advocate for Community Engagement, Crystal will lead a team of Deputy Public Advocates to implement meaningful strategies rooted in equity and transparency, tackling key issues such as housing equity; education & opportunity; justice, health equity & safety; infrastructure & environmental justice; and civic & community empowerment.

“I am so honored to be the first openly gay First Deputy Public Advocate,” said Crystal Hudson. “While this milestone in and of itself imbues me with great pride, the fact that I get to serve with a Public Advocate as dynamic, enthusiastic, and engaged as Jumaane Williams is what attracted me to this position and continues to allow me to do the real work of public advocacy in the city that has raised me. I owe a great deal to the LGBTQ+ pioneers who have paved the road before me -- particularly in public service. We have so much to give to this city, and I am thankful for the opportunity to serve. ”

Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams said, “We’re honored to have Crystal join our staff as First Deputy Public Advocate for Community Engagement. In a city like New York, government can only be effective if it can be capable of tackling the intersectional realities that New Yorkers face, and uplifting their voices and concerns. Crystal’s experience in government and as an organizer has readily equipped her to tackle many of these challenges, and her work and representation within our office will surely pave the way for future leaders and change makers in the LGBTQ+ community.”

“We’re extremely proud of Crystal” said LID President Jared Arader. “Her success sets a high standard for political representation in our community. Disadvantaged and at-risk members of our community have even more to strive for when they see themselves reflected among the top staffers for our citywide elected officials.”

Crystal joins the Public Advocate’s office after a year and a half as Chief of Operations for Council Member Laurie Cumbo. Crystal lives and grew up in Prospect Heights, where she lives with her partner Sasha. You can follow her on Twitter @crystalrhudson

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