Speaking with Suffolk County Legislator Jonathan Cooper is a revelation. In this day and age, so many of us live in happy isolation in our own little worlds, oblivious to what's going on in the national or international scene, or even on Long Island. It also seems that cynicism about our political leaders has become something of an inborn American trait. Any citizen who feels skeptical that a local politician could really care about the needs of his/her constituents; or who questions how much of a difference that one man or woman can really make, should look at the achievements of Mr. Jon Cooper. In November 1999, Jon Cooper was the first openly gay person elected as a Legislator on Long Island. For this reason alone, the soft-spoken, sincere Mr. Cooper has become a hero for the Long Island gay and lesbian community and proof that sexual orientation need not be a barrier to meeting any of our professional or creative goals. "My winning has had an impact. It's a sign that ANYTHING is possible," Jon stated "Breaking down stereotypes and barriers, and educating people is a day-to-day battle. It won't happen overnight. It's not just about being gay. It's about being able to be OPENLY gay. So many gay people remain closeted-- teachers, cops, scientists, politicians-- for fear of losing their jobs. That's one of the reasons why SONDA (The Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act) is so important."

Jon Cooper boasts a long, impressive list of legislative accomplishments which could more than hold its own alongside the achievements of older, more seasoned politicians. Since 1978, Jon has run Spectronics Corporation, a company with 200 employees that is one of the few remaining manufacturing firms on Long Island. But there's more to Mr. Cooper than a professional resume. He and his partner of 20 years, Rob, also proudly serve in the role of "Dad." While the issue of gay men and lesbians having children can hardly be considered revolutionary today, we must remember that when Jon and Rob adopted their oldest of five children 16 years ago, they were among the first. Being a parent has always been an under appreciated job. But out of all the hats that Jon Cooper wears, being a father is what he is most proud about and most identifies with. "If I had to choose between being Legislator, businessman, or parent, there would be absolutely no question which I'd choose," he stated. Jon and Rob have built up a large network of support which includes many gay couples with children as well as straight couples with kids. Back in 1998, Newsday presented a five-page story about Jon, Rob, and family, with full color pictures. Jon stated that he learned later that Newsday was just a bit wary about any negative backlash they'd possibly receive. But to both Jon's and Newsday's delight, there were over 300 letters of support-- and only two or three letters of disapproval. Jon and Rob became local celebrities, and were approached by 20/20, HBO, "Good Morning America," CBS, and many more about doing a profile about their "unorthodox" household. Among the TV shows the family appeared on was a PBS special called "Our House" which aired in June 2000. "It would take a while to remember all the coverage we got!" Jon stated about the overwhelming attention that his family receives. Jon states that meeting the local kids and their parents is one of the most rewarding aspects about his job as Legislator. He volunteered as a coach for 12 seasons in the Cold Spring Harbor/Huntington Soccer League. "I guess I'm just a big kid myself!," Jon added with a chuckle.

Jon has been an unyielding positive presence in the gay and lesbian community, donating his political status and his scant spare time and energy to important causes for gay men and lesbians. Jon was a cosponsor of legislation that will strengthen Suffolk County's human rights law and prohibit discrimination in employment and housing based on sexual orientation. The bill was approved by the County Legislature but was unfortunately vetoed by the County Executive. An amended bill will be coming before the Legislature in the upcoming weeks, and Jon states that he fully expects it to be approved and signed into law. Jon is the Huntington Chair of the Gay Democrats of Suffolk County. He also offers financial support to many GLBT organizations including The Empire State Pride Agenda, the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, CHOLI (Community House of Long Island), and the East End Gay Organization (EEGO). Barry Jones and Jim Coppola of GALFOLI have chosen to honor Jon Cooper, who Barry calls, "the perfect role model for gay youth," at the Dock of the Bay Summer Party on August 19, 2001. Jon was selected as a Grand Marshall in the 2000 Long Island Pride Parade. Anyone that knows Jon knows that despite his frenetic schedule and many commitments, he is very warm, approachable, and never too busy to listen to fellow members of the community.

Jon spends about half his time working for Spectronics, and the other half working as Legislator. Between these commitments and being a parent of five, what motivates Jon Cooper? Jon told me that his business had been very successful, but Jon wanted more. He wanted to give back to his community. On Thanksgiving weekend 1999, Jon learned of a family from his community who experienced a tragedy at least partially attributed to the use of a hand-held cell phone while driving. What happened afterward became a personal mission and cause for which Jon is probably best known (so far!) . In April 2000, Jon introduced legislation to ban the use of hand-held cell phones while driving in Suffolk County. Similar bills had been introduced before in 27 different states, but tremendous opposition from cell phone companies prevented their passage. Jon became a common sight on CNN, and also appeared on NBC Nightly News to gain support for his cause and to raise awareness about the danger of talking on the cell phone and driving at the same time. He learned of dozens of other tragic stories, and over 150 phone calls were received at the District Office in support of the legislation. The bill passed in September 2000, and was signed into law on October 26, 2000-- making Suffolk the first county with such a law in the nation . New York State soon followed suit. Jon has since then introduced between 70 to 80 bills, including a number which were the first of their kind for New York State and one which was the first of its kind in the nation. The cell phone crusade and others show that Jon Cooper cares about the safety of his constituents and isn't influenced by partisanship or special interest groups, personal gain, or personal glory. This is also demonstrated by his choice of causes, which include his own commitment to environmental issues (He sponsored legislation banning the sale of mercury-containing thermometers) and public safety issues (He sponsored legislation banning the sale of herbal cigarettes to minors.). " I have a conscience," Jon proudly declares. "I don't accept large contributions for the purpose of influencing my decisions. I prefer to accept small amounts from a broad base of support. I'm independent, and I don't owe anyone any favors or answer to anyone. When I go home at night, I need to be able to justify what I did that day. I'm proud of every bill I introduce. They affect the people that live in my district and county."

Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper has restored many people's faith in the political system. He states that he gets a lot of positive feedback for his work, from teenagers to senior citizens. He states that being a role model and inspiration for his youngest constituents is what he feels most proud about. Jon concludes, "As a parent, it's exciting to know that so many things are changing for the better. The younger generation will benefit from that." Jon Cooper is uncompromising in his goals for the gay and lesbian community. When asked about his expectations for our future, he states "I'd like to see COMPLETE acceptance!" With Jon Cooper among our leaders on the long road to equality, we can all have high hopes. It's clear that THIS father knows best!

Related Articles:
The Men of DOCK OF THE BAY: Barry Jones & Jim Coppola
Helen of 608... 'Nuff Said!
Camille's Crusade
Tom Maligno: Unsung Hero

Photos by: Louis Trapani (c) 2001

Editorials by
Mike Schiller

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