Karen Clark: Minnesota’s LGBTQ+ Legislative Trailblazer | Minneapolis News

Minnesota mourns the loss of Karen Clark, a trailblazing legislator who shattered barriers and championed justice for decades. At 80, she leaves behind a legacy as the first and longest-serving openly lesbian state legislator in the U.S., serving 38 years in the Minnesota House. A fierce advocate for environmental justice and LGBTQ rights, she helped pass groundbreaking laws on toxic exposure, health impact analysis, and marriage equality. Known for her strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to equity, Clark inspired generations of leaders. She shared 35 years with her beloved partner, Jacquelyn Zita, married for 11 of those. The family requests privacy as they grieve, with a memorial to follow. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a19416abcb4413fc