CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons was recognized by Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs with the Illinois LGBTQ+ Leader Award during a celebration Wednesday commemorating LGBTQ+ History Month in Chicago.

“As the first openly gay senator in the state of Illinois and the third openly gay senator in the country, I bring my lived experiences as well as my constituents' with me every day,”said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Since taking office three years ago, I have fought to protect LGBTQ+ rights in Illinois through empowering organizations and taking legislative action to advance the rights of LGBTQ+ folks across the state.”

The event celebrated the societal impact and leadership of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people and their allies. Treasurer Frerichs presented awards to leaders in the military, medicine, education, advocacy and activism, government, athletics, and fine arts.

LGBTQ+ History Month was started in 1994 by Rodney Wilson, then a Missouri high school teacher who championed celebrating the historical importance of the LGBTQ+ community. From those small steps, the month grew. The Equality Forum now champions the promotion of the history month, shedding new light on past accomplishments at EqualityForum.com.

“Thank you again to Treasurer Frerichs for this honor,” Simmons said. “It is a profound privilege to serve in elected office as the State Senator to the 7th District, and I will continue my commitment toward enshrining the rights of all LGBTQ+ folks into law.”

For more information on State Senator Mike Simmons, follow him on Instagram,  Facebook and X or visit his website at www.SenatorMikeSimmons.com.

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