Times Observer file photo Doug Hearn, former city councilman who is shown here when he was sworn in on council in 2020, has been appointed to the board of Keystone Equality, a statewide LGBTQ advocacy organization.

A Warren man has been appointed to the board of a state-wide LGBTQ advocacy organization.

Doug Hearn was one of 14 selected to lead Keystone Equality, which describes itself as the state’s “leading state-wide political organization working for the civil rights” of LGBTQ communities.

Liz Bradbury was named the organization’s chair.

“I am eager to work with Liz and the new Board of Directors in promoting voter registration, endorsing candidates for public office in local, state, and federal elections, and to act as a leading voice in Pennsylvania political action for LGBTQ inclusion,” Hearn, a founding member of the organization, said.

“While my responsibilities are focused on the PennWilds region I am looking to add at least one new board member to help with this large geographical area,” Hearn told the Times Observer. “We have many small communities to service.”

Key functions of Keystone Equality are endorsing candidates and providing information on policies.

“When elected officials cause harm to LGBTQ Pennsylvanians we must call attention to their actions,” Hearn said. “When elected officials work tirelessly to ensure LGBTQ Pennsylvanians are safe and protected under the law, we are called to highlight their work.”

Hearn said the organization also focused on voter registration.

“We do this through providing information on voter registration to LGBTQ community organizations across the state, and promoting Get Out the Vote efforts whenever possible,” he said. “Keystone Equality aims to be a partner with national, state, and local partners wishing to increase voter participation for LGBTQ Pennsylvanians.”

Policy advocacy is also a key function for the organization.

“From supporting constituents contacting their legislators on issues before local and state governments to issuing statements on legislative activities, Keystone Equality aims to advance LGBTQ inclusion in Pennsylvania through direct political organizing,” Hearn said.