Chicago LGBTQ+ activist Lori Cannon dead at 74

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Lori Cannon, known for her work advocating for Chicago's LGBTQ+ community, has died at 74.

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"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Lori Cannon, a fierce HIV/AIDS activist and beloved pillar of Chicago's LGBTQ+ community," a spokesperson for Center on Halsted said.

Cannon co-founded Open Hand Chicago and ACT UP Chicago.

"We honor her legacy by continuing the work she so fearlessly championed-supporting those most in need with dignity, compassion, and resolve," a spokesperson for Center on Halsted said. "Rest in power, Lori."

Gov. JB Pritzker said on social media, "Lori Cannon was a true ally in Illinois from her organizing days to founding Open Hand Chicago - she led the way with chutzpah and humor. My deepest condolences to her loved ones as we mourn the passing of a friend of the community in our state. May her memory be a blessing."

Alderman Bennett Lawson, who represents the 44th Ward, said, "She was one of a kind. A very tough loss today."