From State Treasurer Michael Frerichs:
State Treasurer Michael Frerichs Honors Illinois Leaders in Celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month
AIDS Foundation Chicago CEO, About Face Theatre Artistic Director, 44th Ward Chicago Alderman Among Recipients
State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today hosted a celebration to honor LGBTQ+ History Month and highlight the accomplishments of leaders in Illinois’ LGBTQ+ community.
The event was an opportunity to reflect on the significant achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people, and their allies. Frerichs presented awards to leaders in business, community service, education, government, labor, sports, and arts and humanities.
“We’ve come together today to honor eight LGBTQ+ neighbors and friends, who have helped make Illinois a better place to live through their dedication to justice, equal opportunity, and inclusivity,” Frerichs said at the awards luncheon in the state government building at 555 W. Monroe St. in Chicago. “We thank these principled leaders for their inspiring work and unwavering commitment.”
Treasurer Frerichs honored the following individuals:
Outstanding Service in Business
Carol Himmel
Co-Owner/Executive Chef, Himmel’s | Owner, Erich’s Lehigh Auto Body Inc.
Outstanding Service in Leadership
John Peller
President and CEO | AIDS Foundation Chicago
Outstanding Commitment to Community Service
Robert Castillo
LGBTQ+ Activist and Community Organizer
Outstanding Commitment to Education
Jin-Soo Huh
Senior Director, Partnerships & Innovation | Education Leaders of Color
Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official
Honorable Bennett Lawson
Alderman, 44th Ward | City of Chicago
Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor
Lauren Sugerman
National Policy Director (retired) | Chicago Women in Trades
Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship
Marcia Hill
Athlete, Coach, Manager, League Commander, Sports Official, and Board Member | Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association
Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities
Megan Carney
Artistic Director | About Face Theatre
LGBTQ+ History Month started in 1994. Rodney Wilson, then a Missouri high school teacher, believed there should be a month devoted to educating students about the historical importance of gays and lesbians. He worked with other teachers and community leaders in selecting October because schools are open then and because important events in LGBTQ+ history, such as National Coming Out Day, take place in October. The month grew over time, receiving endorsements from organizations including GLAAD and the National Education Association.
Equality Forum now champions the promotion of LGBTQ+ History Month by celebrating individuals and their achievements at lgbthistorymonth.com.
