Atlanta, Georgia – Anne Fauver, known for her role in promoting LGBTQ representation in politics, has passed away. She was a member of the Atlanta City Council, serving from 2002 to 2010 in District 6. Fauver, who identified as a lesbian, followed Cathy Woolard, the first openly gay official in Georgia, onto the council. She made history as the council’s second openly gay member.
Before her political career, Fauver worked as a Realtor. In 2009, she decided not to run for a third term. The following year, Alex Wan, another openly gay individual, was elected to represent District 6.
On January 16, the Atlanta City Council expressed their respect and fondness for Fauver in a statement, highlighting her significant contributions to the Council, her district, and the Morningside neighborhood.
“She was a trailblazer who helped pave the way for LGBTQIA+ elected officials,” the statement said. “Her dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to her communities led to a consummate constituent service, legislation to create a new ethics code for City officials, and the discovery of revenue sources to avoid layoffs within the City of Atlanta,” the statement said.
“Beyond her professional accomplishments, Anne’s spirit was endearing to her colleagues and friends alike. She leaves an indelible mark on those privileged to work alongside her.”
Mayor Andre Dickens commended Anne Fauver for her pivotal role in enacting laws that granted benefits to the registered domestic partners of city employees. This was a significant move, especially since it happened much before the legalization of marriage equality.
“Her efforts also led to groundbreaking legislation that established equity in the City’s employee pension programs making Atlanta the first municipality in Georgia to extend these benefits to registered domestic partners,” he said in a written statement.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones during this difficult time,” he said.
