SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza honored three central Illinois leaders Tuesday for their efforts to help the LGBTQ+ community. Mendoza said each of the honorees are trailblazers who should be recognized for lifting up others throughout Illinois.
The Democrat told reporters at her Springfield office that Pride Month is a critical time to celebrate the bravery LGBTQ+ people have shown in response to ignorance and hate. Mendoza said Illinois believes in equity and inclusion, the right and freedom to be yourself, love who you love and live a life with respect and dignity.
“You are here because of your courage, strength and accomplishments,” Mendoza said. “You serve as role models for others who are struggling with their identity or are just trying to find their rightful place in this world.”
Rachael Gardner Purdy is a clinical counselor at the Phoenix Center in Springfield. She is currently researching the ramifications of not having enough HIV harm reduction programs in rural areas. Mendoza noted that Gardner Purdy has also played a big role in Springfield Pride Fest since she moved to the area.
“I love what I do. I do it because it’s something that’s part of me,” Gardner Purdy said. “I’ll continue to do it to fight for justice for the folks I work for.”
Kat Parker was also recognized for her work to provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth in the Jacksonville area. Now, teens and tweens can express themselves without judgement, talk about personal and social issues and make new friends through the S.A.G.E Project. Parker said her organization has seen days with two kids and others where she can help 15 teenagers.
“I don’t care if it’s just one. If we help one child, one teenager, then we’re succeeding,” Parker said. “If we make small steps in our community forward, that’s a win for us.”
Deric Kimler has made a profound impact on Peoria, Bloomington-Normal and so many other communities by providing free HIV and STI testing with Central Illinois Friends. The Executive Director said he was inspired to help others after growing up in a small town that didn’t respect the LGBTQ community or heterosexual people diagnosed with HIV.
“We have history. It did not just start in the 70s and 80s,” Kimler stressed. “We have existed. If we don’t have moments like this and months like June, Pride Month, then we’ll quickly become more and more vulnerable to all of those other states who are pushing backwards.”
Kimler said Peoria has seen a significant number of LGBTQ+ families fleeing to Illinois for safety and freedom. Mendoza stressed that everyone should feel welcome in Illinois every month of the year.
“We have seen other states attack LGBTQ+ residents with Don’t Say Gay laws and other dangerous policies,” Mendoza said. “But not here in Illinois, where we believe in marriage equality and the right to live free and without discrimination.”
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