• Equality Illinois Event

This legislative session is a busy one for champions of LGBTQ equality in Illinois. On the national level we are seeing a really big rise in anti-LGBTQ sentiment, particularly from the administration in Washington. Seeing that happen in Washington, we have to SHOW UP! and SPEAK UP! to support our allies and champions in the Illinois State Capitol and make sure that our state continues to demonstrate its values of being fully equal and inclusive. Register for the 2018 LGBTQ Advocacy Day on Wednesday, April 11!

 
One of our priority issues will be the Inclusive Curriculum Bill, SB 3249, an initiative of Equality Illinois and the Illinois Safe Schools Alliance, to teach students the historical events and contributions by LGBTQ people. An LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum can also have a positive affect on students’ self-image and make their peers more accepting. Read more about the bill HERE.
 
WHAT: 2018 LGBTQ Advocacy Day: A daylong advocacy event in Springfield; complete with lobbying training, lunch, meetings with legislators, and a visit to the capitol. The event includes a box lunch and concluding reception. Registration includes transportation selection: bus from two Chicago locations or driving on your own, including car pooling and ride sharing. Afffinity Community Services is a community partner of LGBTQ Advocacy Day.

WHEN: Wednesday, April 11.

WHERE: Illinois State Capitol (401 S. 2nd Street, Springfield) and Red Roof State House Inn (101 E Adams St., Springfield).

THE SCHEDULE:

6AM – Bus departs from Equality Illinois in the Chicago Loop at 16 N. Wabash Ave.

6:35AM – Bus departs from Affinity Community Services, 2850 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago

6AM – 11AM – Car pools, Amtrak, other transportation from around the state head to Springfield

11AM – 12PM – Advocacy training and lunch at the State House Inn

12PM – 3:30PM – Meetings with legislators and public officials, both individually and in groups, in the Illinois State Capitol. More information on exact meetings will be announced prior to the event. Check back for more information.

3:30PM – 5 – Closing event and reception at the Red Roof State House Inn

5PM – Chicago bus departs Springfield
 
This is a great opportunity to meet with fellow supporters of LGBTQ equality and let your voice be heard on issues that affect us all.
 
Questions: Email Anthony Galloway, Equality Illinois Director of Civic Engagement, at agalloway@eqil.org.
 
We hope to see you there!