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Title
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, The House of Representatives, Condolence Resolution
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Description
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Condolence resolution in honor of Jaci Adams (1956 - 2014). The law enforcement officer was a remarkable transwoman whose life embodied resilience and the "American Dream." Born in Beckley, WV., and raised in North Philadelphia, Adams overcame a history of abuse, addiction, and incarceration to become a fierce advocate for social justice, particularly for the trans community (Staff 2014).
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Despite enduring childhood neglect, she transformed her hardships into dedicated service, guided by an unwavering compass and infectious self-esteem. For example, the 2002 murder of her friend Nizah Morris galvanized her activism, leading her to serve on Temple University’s Community Advisory Board and as a member of the Philadelphia Police LGBT Liaison Committee, she trained every cadet class for years. Her passing on February 15, 2014, from cancer was deeply mourned, as it marked the loss of a fierce advocate who had led countless battles for justice—except this final one.
Jaci’s impact on Philadelphia’s LGBTQ communities was profound. As the longest-serving member of the Philadelphia Police Liaison Committee, she worked tirelessly to bridge gaps between marginalized communities and law enforcement. Her advocacy extended to transgender rights and HIV/AIDS health initiatives, where she was a driving force behind policy changes that made city agencies more inclusive. She even trained rookie police officers, ensuring they understood and respected the communities they served.
Beyond her day job, Jaci was a mentor and pillar of strength. She personally guided dozens of transgender women and other vulnerable individuals, helping them secure housing, education, and support. Her deep knowledge of Philadelphia’s social services connected people in need with the right resources. Described as a "firebrand advocate," Jaci strengthened the foundation of the city’s LGBTQ communities, leaving a legacy of empowerment and solidarity.
A copy of this resolution, sponsored by the Honorable Rosita C. Youngblood on February 21, 2014, was transmitted to the family of Jaci Adams serves as a lasting tribute to Jaci’s contributions. It honors her lifelong commitment to justice and calls on future generations to continue her work. The document also directs an engraved copy of the resolution to be presented to her chosen family, symbolizing the city’s gratitude. Jaci Adams’ life reminds us that one person’s dedication can ignite lasting change, and her legacy continues to inspire those fighting for equality today.
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Contributor
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John J. Wilcox, Jr. Archives at William Way LGBT Community Center
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Date Created
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2014
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Creator
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Pennsylvania. General Assembly. House of Representatives
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Rights
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This work is not in copyright, but commercial uses of this digital representation are limited. For more information, contact archives@waygay.org and see http://rightsstatements.org/page/NoC-NC/1.0/
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Identifier
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Ms. Coll. 56
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Language
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eng
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Format
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Text
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Extent
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1 page
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Spatial Coverage
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Philadelphia, PA
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Publisher
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Pennsylvania. General Assembly. House of Representatives
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Is Part Of
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Jaci Adams memorial collection, 2012-2014
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Subject
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Law enforcement
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Collective memory
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Resolutions, Legislative
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Legacies
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Social advocacy
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Leadership
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Inspiration
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Pennsylvania--Philadelphia
