Simmons Increases Access to Affordable Housing for Youth Experiencing Homelessness

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons passed legislation through the Senate which will improve access to affordable housing for young people experiencing homelessness, particularly those struggling with mental health issues or substance abuse.

“This bill is directly informed by community partners and constituents who have told us many young people age out of programs and services when they turn 18, putting them in limbo for additional support services until they turn 21,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “By lowering the eligibility age to 18, we can help more young people when they need it most, and prevent future housing insecurity and instability.”

Read more …

Simmons advances bill to update Illinois STI language

SPRINGFIELD – To more accurately represent public health, State Senator Mike Simmons passed legislation through the Senate Public Health Committee and Senate, successively, to amend the title of the “Illinois Sexually Transmissible Disease Control Act,” to be the “Illinois Sexually Transmitted Infection Control Act.” Additionally, the Act will include human papillomavirus and mpox within the updated definition of sexually transmitted infections.

“The need to update language in this legislation reflects a growing and more inclusive understanding of sexual health,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Our legislation should be both scientifically accurate and free from stigmas.”

Read more …

Ethiopian Diamond Restaurant Relief Fund, Ribbon Cuttings, and More Community Updates

General Updates from Senator Mike Simmons

Dear Neighbor,

March is coming to a close, and I wanted to send out this newsletter to wrap up this month’s community updates. I hope you and your families are all doing well whether you are partaking in the holy month of Ramadan, preparing for Easter this Sunday, fasting for Fasika, celebrating Holi Festival of Colors, or simply spending time with family and friends. We’ve also included a GoFundMe link for a pillar in our community, Ethiopian Diamond Restaurant, an Edgewater family-owned restaurant that is recovering from challenges brought on by the pandemic.

Read more …

Simmons commemorates “Elise Malary Way” at street naming ceremony

CHICAGO – In collaboration with Chicago Therapy Collective, the 40th Ward, 48th Ward, and community stakeholders, State Senator Mike Simmons attended an honorary street-naming ceremony commemorating Catalpa Avenue between Clark Street and Ashland Avenue as “Elise Malary Way.”

“Today would have been Elise’s 34th birthday. She was a beautiful, gentle person who fought fiercely for the rights of all Black trans and LGBTQ+ people,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Commemorating her life and legacy will continue beyond today.”

Elise Malary was a dedicated LGBTQ+ activist who left an indelible mark on those around her. She was committed to advocating for Black trans women and other vulnerable members of the community. Elise Malary Way serves as a symbol of LGBTQ+ inclusion and preserves Malary’s legacy of inspiring future generations to continue advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice.

Read more …