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Josh Mers is an American insurance executive, LGBTQ+ rights advocate, and former political candidate in Kentucky. He is known for his community activism, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, and his contributions to Kentucky's public life through his advocacy and professional work.
Political Involvement
[edit]Mers has actively participated in Kentucky's political landscape. In 2018, he ran as a Democratic candidate for the Kentucky House of Representatives in District 88. Although he did not win the nomination, his campaign focused on issues related to social justice, economic opportunity, and community well-being.[1]
In 2019, Mers sought the Democratic nomination for Kentucky State Treasurer. His campaign addressed financial transparency, economic fairness, and inclusivity. Despite his efforts, he was defeated in the primary by Michael Bowman.[2][3] These campaigns underscored Mers' commitment to public service and his desire to represent his community in the Kentucky state government.
He also served as a member of the Kentucky Democratic Party's State Central Executive Committee and as the Chair of the Lexington-Fayette County Democratic Party.[4]
LGBTQ+ Advocacy
[edit]A significant aspect of Mers' public life is his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. He served as the chair of Lexington Fairness, an organization dedicated to promoting equal rights and fairness for LGBTQ+ individuals in Central Kentucky.[5][6] Under his leadership, Lexington Fairness championed various initiatives to advance equality and protect the rights of LGBTQ+ Kentuckians, emphasizing anti-discrimination protections and public awareness and helped to usher the city of Lexington to its first perfect MEI score.[7][8]
Community Engagement and Social Justice
[edit]In addition to his work in LGBTQ+ advocacy, Mers has been actively involved in other social justice initiatives. He has served as a foster parent, reflecting his dedication to family and child welfare. His advocacy work spans issues of equality, inclusivity, and fairness, positioning him as a prominent advocate for underserved and marginalized communities in Kentucky.[9] Mers was also appointed in 2016 by former Mayor Jim Gray to serve as a member of the Lexington-Fayette Human Rights Commission and served for seven years.[10]
Professional Career
[edit]Josh Mers holds a prominent position in the insurance industry, where he has cultivated a reputation as a forward-thinking executive. As the President of CoverPoint Insurance, he is responsible for operational strategy, growth, and aligning the agency's objectives with those of its parent organization, Wright-Patt Credit Union.[11][12] His leadership approach emphasizes innovation, community engagement, and long-term sustainability with a focus on the changing dynamics of the industry.
Legacy and Impact
[edit]Through his professional, political, and community roles, Josh Mers has made a lasting impact in Kentucky. His work reflects a commitment to social equity, economic fairness, and community support.[13] Mers continues to be an influential voice in Kentucky, championing causes that advance social justice and support the well-being of his community.
References
[edit]- ^ "Victory Fund Endorses 35 More LGBTQ Candidates for 2018, Spotlights Four New Historic Races". LGBTQ+ Victory Fund. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
- ^ "Josh Mers". Ballotpedia. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
- ^ Press, Associated (2019-05-22). "Democrats nominate Michael Bowman for Kentucky treasurer". https://www.wkyt.com. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
{{cite web}}: External link in|website= - ^ Horn, Austin (06/09/2022). "He's running in KY's 6th Congressional District, but you won't see his name on the ballot Read more at: https://www.kentucky.com/news/politics-government/article262316737.html#storylink=cpy". kentucky.com.
{{cite web}}: Check date values in:|date=(help); External link in|title= - ^ Mers, Josh (10/24/2018). "Reject fear-mongering of transgender people". kentucky.com.
{{cite web}}: Check date values in:|date=(help) - ^ Wolfson, Andrew. "Family judge: Gay marriage like 'jumbo shrimp'". The Courier-Journal. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
- ^ Herald Leader Editorial Board (05/18/2018). "Herald-Leader endorsements in Tuesday primary". kentucky.com.
{{cite web}}: Check date values in:|date=(help) - ^ Bramer, Jack (11/16/2017). "Lexington's rainbow crosswalk is a safety hazard, federal official says". kentucky.com.
{{cite web}}: Check date values in:|date=(help) - ^ Eads, Morgan (08/24/2018). "Police investigating after car keyed with homophobic slur in downtown Lexington". Lexington Herald Leader.
{{cite news}}: Check date values in:|date=(help) - ^ "Vote Smart | Facts For All". Vote Smart. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
- ^ "Josh Mers". CoverPoint Insurance. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
- ^ "Josh Mers - President, Wright-patt Insurance Products at WRIGHT-PATT CREDIT UNION". THE ORG. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
- ^ "Interview with Josh Mers, August 29, 2018". nunncenter.net. Retrieved 2024-11-05.