Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs honored eight LGBTQ+ community leaders at a luncheon in Chicago on Tuesday, marking LGBTQ+ History Month.

The event recognized achievements across business, community service, education, government, labor, sports, and arts and humanities. It was held in the state government building at 555 W. Monroe St. in Chicago.

"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. "We thank these principled leaders for their inspiring work and unwavering commitment."

Award recipients

  • Outstanding Service in Business: Carol Himmel, co-owner and executive chef of Himmel's and owner of Erich's Lehigh Auto Body Inc.
  • Outstanding Service in Leadership: John Peller, president and CEO of AIDS Foundation Chicago
  • Outstanding Commitment to Community Service: Robert Castillo, LGBTQ+ activist and community organizer
  • Outstanding Commitment to Education: Jin-Soo Huh, senior director of partnerships and innovation at Education Leaders of Color
  • Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official: Alderman Bennett Lawson, 44th Ward, City of Chicago
  • Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor: Lauren Sugerman, retired national policy director of Chicago Women in Trades
  • Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship: Marcia Hill, athlete, coach, manager, league commander, sports official and board member with the Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association
  • Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities: Megan Carney, artistic director of About Face Theatre

Background

According to the release, LGBTQ+ History Month began in 1994, when Missouri high school teacher Rodney Wilson proposed a month devoted to educating students about LGBTQ+ history. October was chosen because schools are in session and because events such as National Coming Out Day fall during the month. It has since received endorsements from organizations including GLAAD and the National Education Association.

Video of the event will be posted on the state's media page.

Source: the original release