SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate backed an effort co-sponsored by State Senator Karina Villa (D-West Chicago) to declare Oct. 28, 2021 as First Responders Day in Illinois.

“The first responders who serve Illinois deserve our endless gratitude, but declaring Oct. 28 as First Responders Day is a good start to celebrating our heroes,” Villa said. “These brave men and women wake up every day ready to put their lives on the line to save lives and make our communities safe.”

The proposal thanks 911 dispatchers, as well as firefighters, police offers, emergency medical technicians and paramedics for their commitment to public safety across Illinois.

“I’m pleased to see support from the Illinois Senate to honor and celebrate our brave first responders,” Villa said. “Let us take this First Responders Day to thank the hardworking heroes who serve our neighborhoods.”

Senate Resolution 534 was adopted with bipartisan support in the Senate on Wednesday.