American Cancer Society addresses the State of Cancer in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) joined forces at a press conference Thursday to discuss the state of cancer and advocate for measures to tackle the deadly disease.

“Increasing cancer awareness and sponsoring policy that positively impacts cancer statistics is a priority,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Since 1990, cancer mortality rates have dropped by 25%. We must act to continue this positive progression and restore hope.”

Nearly 80,000 Illinoisans will be diagnosed with cancer this year and 23,000 will likely lose their lives to the disease.

Currently, cancer screenings for certain types of cancer are covered by insurance as long as the patient meets the age requirement. Senator Morrison is working with ACS CAN to pass Senate Bill 2697.

Read more: American Cancer Society addresses the State of Cancer in Illinois

Simmons holds hearing to highlight the increase in suicide rates in Black communities across Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – In tandem with the beginning of Mental Health Month, State Senator Mike Simmons organized a subject matter hearing at the State Capitol to look at the increase in suicide rates in African-American communities across Illinois.

“I am deeply thankful to the people who traveled here today. It was the first time that several of our witnesses had ever been to the State Capitol,” said Simmons. “Some of them have paid the ultimate price losing loved ones to suicide and other internalized violence borne out by several systems that simply haven’t cut it when it comes to mental health and wellness in African-American communities.”

In a hearing held by the Senate Behavioral and Mental Health Committee, State Senator Mike Simmons brought critical attention to the escalating crisis of suicide rates within Black communities.

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Sims recognizes May 1 as Alpha Phi Alpha Day

SPRINGFIELD – Senator Elgie Sims proclaimed May 1, 2024 as Alpha Phi Alpha Day– recognizing the significant contributions made by the fraternity, particularly in the areas of service, leadership and community empowerment.

"I am proud to recognize Alpha Phi Alpha for their unwavering dedication to uplifting communities and fostering positive change," said Sims (D-Chicago). "Their commitment to service and excellence serves as a guiding light for us all, and I am honored to proclaim May 1 as Alpha Phi Alpha Day in Illinois."

Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for Black men, was founded on Dec. 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. Since its inception, the fraternity has been dedicated to the principles of scholarship, manly deeds, and love for all mankind, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals across the country.

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Simmons Advances Bill to Create Board to Tackle Health Care Disparities

SPRINGFIELD – Simmons advanced legislation through the Senate, which will create a Health Outcomes Review Board to identify and tackle healthcare disparities.

“The findings of the Health Outcomes Review Board will be vital in developing and targeting policy solutions that can improve health outcomes, improve the quality of life for many, reduce health care costs and save lives,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Whether it’s the unacceptable life expectancy gap for African-American and Latine communities, disparities in quality of health insurance coverage for low-income households, or inadequate access to follow up and specialty care for LGBTQ+ communities, the board will help identify those gaps and recommend improvements.”

Simmons’ legislation, Senate Bill 3751, will create the Health Outcomes Review Board, overseen by the Illinois Department of Public Health, which will focus on collecting and analyzing de-identified health data, particularly emphasizing demographic factors such as race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, and languages spoken.

Read more: Simmons Advances Bill to Create Board to Tackle Health Care Disparities