AUSTIN, TX / ACCESS Newswire / May 12, 2025 / In a powerful gesture of solidarity and service, Jessica Cohen, a prominent Democratic leader and LGBTQ+ advocate, made the 225-mile journey from Austin to Dallas last weekend to attend and support a major fundraiser hosted by the Dallas Stonewall Democrats. Cohen's presence at the event not only reinforced her commitment to the communities that helped elect her but also highlighted her belief in the importance of statewide coalition-building across Texas' diverse Democratic landscape.
Though Cohen downplays the significance of the trip, describing it as "not really press worthy", those familiar with Texas politics recognize it as emblematic of her style of leadership: driven by action, loyalty, and a readiness to go the extra mile, literally, for those who share in the fight for equality, justice, and inclusive representation.
Showing Up Matters
Cohen's drive, spanning over three and a half hours each way, was undertaken not for fanfare, but out of a genuine desire to show up for a sibling organization within the broader Stonewall network. The Dallas Stonewall Democrats, one of the state's most active LGBTQ+ political advocacy organizations, welcomed her as both an ally and a colleague.
"I didn't go expecting a spotlight," Jessica Cohen said following the event. "I went because the folks in Dallas matter. They've stood with me, and I'll always stand with them. Showing up is the least I can do for the people who continue to do the hard work on the ground, often without recognition."
In a time when political divisions run deep and travel budgets are tight, Cohen's willingness to put hundreds of miles behind her for a single evening of support is a reminder of the type of relational, people-powered politics she consistently practices.
Connecting with Party Leadership
As a member of the Texas State Democratic Executive Committee (SDEC) and Vice President of the Texas Democratic Party LGBTQ Caucus, Jessica Cohen has long advocated for stronger connections between party infrastructure and on-the-ground organizations like Stonewall Democrats chapters. Her presence at the Dallas fundraiser helped reinforce the value of that interconnectedness.
"Sometimes the most meaningful conversations don't happen on Zoom calls or official party calls. They happen in real moments, in real places, when we gather as people," she said. "It meant a lot to exchange ideas face-to-face with the Chair. We're all here to build a better Texas, and that work takes trust and togetherness."
A Lifetime of Grassroots Service
Jessica Cohen's commitment to public service and political engagement is rooted in decades of experience. A network security consultant by profession and a public servant by calling, Cohen has become a central figure in Texas Democratic politics. She currently serves as:
President, Stonewall Democrats of Austin
Vice President, Texas Democratic Party LGBTQ Caucus
Member, Texas State Democratic Executive Committee (SDEC)
Chair, Austin Board of Adjustment
Ex-Officio Member, Austin Planning Commission
Precinct Chair, Travis County (PCT 425)
Cohen's long-standing dedication to civil rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and progressive policy reform has made her a respected voice across the state. She is a regular presence at the Texas Legislature, frequently testifying against discriminatory legislation and advocating for inclusive policy at all levels of government.
Her 2018 run for Austin City Council (District 3) was sparked by a proposed anti-transgender bathroom bill. Though not elected, she used the campaign to bring attention to housing, land use, and civil rights, issues that remain central to her work today.
A Legacy of Lived Experience
As a trans woman with over 25 years of lived experience, Jessica Cohen brings a deep well of authenticity to her advocacy. Her leadership is informed not only by data and policy but by personal understanding of the stakes involved in decisions made at City Hall, the Capitol, and party conventions.
Her professional expertise in cybersecurity, particularly in finance and healthcare, also brings a technical lens to her policy thinking. Jessica is a staunch advocate for women and LGBTQ+ individuals in STEM fields, regularly mentoring young professionals and pushing for diversity in traditionally underrepresented industries.
No Distance Too Far
While many view the distance between Austin and Dallas as a logistical hurdle, for Jessica Cohen, the choice to make the trip was instinctive, part of a broader ethic of reciprocal support and movement-building that transcends city limits.
"I think it's important to remind people that we're in this together, El Paso, Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, the Valley. We may be miles apart, but our values connect us," Cohen said.
Her recent visit to Dallas came on the heels of several other engagements that further demonstrate this commitment. On March 29th, she participated in the voting body to elect the new Texas Democratic Party Chair, having previously attended all five candidate forums held statewide, often raising critical questions about LGBTQ+ inclusion and leadership. She also joined the Hands Off Rally at the Texas Capitol front lawn and helped organize gifts for Transgender Day of Visibility, personally delivering cookies to the Central Texas House delegation and LGBTQ Caucus staff.
These actions, small and large, local and statewide, all point to a leader who understands that advocacy doesn't end when the cameras turn off or when meetings adjourn. It continues in conversations, car rides, and community celebrations, wherever people are gathered to build a better, fairer Texas.
Recognized, but Grounded
Despite a growing list of accolades, including recent recognition by the University of Texas Democrats as a "friend and frequent sponsor", Cohen remains deeply grounded in the grassroots origins of her activism. She views each new connection not as a career milestone, but as a personal responsibility.
"I'm honored by any recognition, truly," she said, "but what matters most is whether we're moving the needle; on healthcare, housing, trans rights, education, and economic justice. That's the metric I care about. The rest is just logistics."
For the Dallas Stonewall Democrats, her visit was more than just a show of support, it was a symbol of unity, dedication, and resolve. In an era when many elected officials and political figures are criticized for being out of touch or inaccessible, Cohen's journey was a refreshing reminder that leadership still means being present, being generous, and being willing to go the distance, both figuratively and literally.
Media Contact:
Jessica Cohen
(512) 843-5377
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicacohenatx/
SOURCE: Jessica Cohen
View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
