Glass Lawler Mental Health is named for Carmah Lawler and her wife, Kathy Glass. The couple was very politically active and involved in the local community. Both Kathy and Carmah were also passionate activists and trained social workers, dedicated to the cause of access and fair treatment for all.
Partners of 60 years, Carmah and Kathy were long time members of Old Lesbians Organizing for Change (OLOC). Fellow OLOC members recognized the pair for always updating the group on pressing issues within the state and local government and encouraging others to stay informed and involved in local government happenings.
Carmah and Kathy were also very involved in the Jefferson County Rainbow Democrats and the League of Women Voters. As activists, Kathy and Carmah’s work was focused on people in need and LGBTQ+ rights. The couple testified at legislative hearings on behalf of marriage equality for many years and joined in celebrating the legislature’s approval of civil unions in 2013.
Carmah spent much of her life working as a social worker. She received her bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University and her master’s degree from University of Michigan.
In 2014, Kathy passed away from breast cancer, and Carmah passed away in 2020.
“Carmah retired from Jeffco Public Schools after a lifetime of serving the community as a social worker,” her online obituary reads. “She was very active in politics, particularly benefiting those in need and GBLT rights. Carmah traveled the world extensively.”
Upon her passing, Carmah left a bequest to The Center on Colfax. We are so grateful to the Estate of Carmah Lawler for this bequest, which has made it possible to create Glass Lawler Mental Health. The Center is proud to name our mental health program in honor of this pioneering couple. We hope that Glass Lawler Mental Health will continue Carmah Lawler and Kathy Glass’ legacy and help ensure accessible and affirming mental healthcare is available to all LGBTQ+ adults.