| Bethany Hallam | |
| Office: | At-Large member of Allegheny County Council |
| Term Start: | January 2, 2020 |
| Predecessor: | John DeFazio |
| Birth Date: | 12 November 1989 |
| Party: | Democrat |
| Education: | Duquesne University |
| Website: | https://www.bethanyhallam.com |
Bethany Hallam is an American politician. Since 2020, she has served as one of two at-large members of Allegheny County Council.[1]
Bethany Hallam's journey began in the suburb of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Ross Township, a close-knit community nestled in the North Hills of Allegheny County. Her formative years were marked by a strong sense of community and a passion for athletics. As a student at North Hills High School, she excelled in lacrosse, despite multiple ACL injuries, testing her physical and mental resilience, forcing her to confront challenges that would shape her future.
Beyond the lacrosse field, Hallam demonstrated a keen intellect and a thirst for knowledge. She pursued her academic interests at Duquesne University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Her time at Duquesne exposed her to diverse perspectives and ignited a passion for public service. Through her involvement in student organizations and volunteer activities, she developed a deep commitment to social justice and community empowerment. Hallam's experiences at Duquesne honed her critical thinking skills and instilled in her a strong work ethic, preparing her for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.[2]
Hallam defeated a 20-year County Council incumbent, John DeFazio, in the 2019 Democratic primary, & secured the at-large seat in the following general election, making her one of a small number of formerly incarcerated people elected to office in the United States. She was sworn in on January 2nd, 2020.[3]
Hallam has been an advocate for a number of causes including criminal justice reform, criminal justice fine & fee reform, abolition of cash bail, harm reduction, and increasing the availability of substance use disorder recovery programs.[4] [5] She is known for her willingness to engage with people who disagree with her.[6]
In her position as a County Councilor, Hallam serves on Allegheny County Jail’s Jail Oversight Board, Allegheny County’s Board of Elections, & Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s board of trustees.[7] [8] [9]