Springfield- In an effort to remove a barrier to full inclusion for immigrant communities in Illinois, State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) is championing a measure that removes the use of “alien” in any Illinois statute when referring to people who have mixed statuses and referring to commerce outside of Illinois and the country.

“As a proud son of a first-generation immigrant from Ethiopia, I am happy to support building community by assisting in removing barriers to access much needed resources,” Simmons said. “I want Illinois to send a clear message that we welcome immigrants and that we are working to eliminate the historic barriers that many of these communities have faced.”

Senate Bill 3865 would remove the use of "alien" in any Illinois statute when referring to people who have mixed statuses and referring to commerce outside of Illinois and the country.  Eliminating references to “alien” in Illinois law would remove a regressive and outdated legal term and symbolize the full inclusion of immigrant communities in Illinois. Similar legislation has recently passed in California and Colorado.

Continued use of the term “alien” as a legal term sends a negative message that recent immigrants, including many who have begun the naturalization process, are not welcome and not valued as full members of their communities.

“I believe that these efforts will facilitate a pathway to build trust between the government and immigrant communities,” Simmons said. “No one is illegal and no one doesn't deserve to be here.”

Simmons filed the measure in time to celebrate the Lunar New Year with the Vietnamese American Association and other ethnic groups. It awaits a committee hearing. 

Chicago- Following his MLK Day visit to Lakeview Pantry, State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) encourages residents to take a stand against food insecurity in their communities by supporting local food pantries.

“Many of our families and neighbors in the 7th district have fallen on hard times, especially these last few years,” Simmons said. “I want to remove the social stigma that prevents us from confronting the issue of food insecurity head on.”

One out of four people in Uptown, and up to half of residents in West Ridge and Rogers Park, struggle with food insecurity. Neighbors of Rogers Park, West Ridge, Uptown, Edgewater, and Lakeview are coming together with the support of Simmons to establish mutual aid. There are over 15 mutual aid organizations within the district offering resources to those who are in need of essentials. Of those 15, five specifically serve those who face food insecurity.

“Access to food is a basic right, not a privilege,” Simmons said. “If you or someone you know needs help finding out where to go to gain access to food, we will connect you with an organization ready to help.  Our office is a non-judgement zone and a safe space for all those in need.”

To learn more about food insecurity, click here. To get in contact with one of the pantries in the district, click here.