Leslie Herod
Since being elected to the Colorado General Assembly in 2016, Representative Leslie Herod has strived for major reform for all in her district— but especially marginalized communities. A Black queer woman, Herod notes that being out at work is nothing short of an advantage; it gives her an intersectional approach, allows her to be her authentic self, and helps forge a stronger connection to her constituents. “The more I speak honestly about my story, the more people are willing to share theirs with me,” says Herod. “It is in that extremely personal space that I learned how many of us are struggling and how little elected officials like me are doing to help.” Now in her second term, Herod has passed over 68 bills addressing criminal justice reform, mental health, addiction, youth homelessness, and civil rights protections. In addition to her role in the State Legislature, Herod also championed Caring for Denver, a ballot initiative that raises $35 million annually for mental health and substance abuse treatment and services. Although she was told “it was never going to work,” Herod pushed ahead to create the largest mental health foundation in the state in an effort to her community. “After hearing from so many people struggling, I knew that I had no choice but to try,” she tells GO. “We are tackling these systemic issues head-on, addressing barriers, and ensuring those who really need the support get it.” Herod strives every day to represent her constituents — particularly those who have not traditionally been invited to the table — through her governmental work. “I am extremely honored to be able to represent my hometown,” says Herod. “I pride myself in being able to pass legislation that makes a real difference in the lives of real people.” —GP
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