About the Boards and Commissions Initiative
Equality Illinois seeks to build the policy and political power of LGBTQ+ Illinoisans by linking qualified lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people to openings on key state boards and commissions. The Boards and Commissions Initiative seeks to enhance the visibility and public leadership of LGBTQ+ Illinoisans on the important state boards and commissions that are instrumental to the operation of state government and drive major policy decisions. Equality Illinois focuses on appointments to panels that have power over five key areas that intersect with the needs and priorities of LGBTQ+ communities: civil rights and civic engagement, economic development, education, health and human services, and public safety and criminal justice but will also encourage service on any board of interest to an LGBTQ+ Illinoisan.
2026 LGBTQ+ Advocacy Day
Join us for Equality Illinois' LGBTQ+ Advocacy Day on May 21, 2025 in Springfield, Illinois at the State Capitol. At a time when our LGBTQ+ rights are being rolled back all across the country, it is crucial that we double down, and continue the fight for our rights here in Illinois, and let our legislators know that LGBTQ+ voices matter!
To learn more about the impact of Illinois’ Boards and Commissions initiative and the progress being made to increase representation in state leadership, we invite you to explore the Governor’s Office of Executive Appointments reports, which outline the results of appointments across Illinois.
What is the process?
The pathway to serving on an Illinois Board or Commission involves two steps. First, Equality Illinois offers an optional internal support process for LGBTQ+ community members interested in public service. Through this process, we gather information about your interests, experiences, and areas of expertise so we can better support and strengthen your application.
If you identify as LGBTQ+ and are interested in lending your talents to the State of Illinois through service on a board or commission, you are invited to submit your information to Equality Illinois. Applicants will then complete the official Governor’s Boards & Commissions application portal.
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