Morrison calls on DCFS to provide better care for LGBTQ youth

SPRINGFIELD – Calling on the Department of Children and Family Services to better support and protect its LGBTQ youth in care, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) held a subject matter hearing Tuesday to address the agency’s shortcomings.

“There are estimates that 30% of our youth in care at DCFS identify as LGBTQ, yet there seems to be a discrepancy between that number and the numbers DCFS provided,” Morrison said. “We must ensure LGBTQ youth in care are getting the proper support they need to have successful futures.” 

The hearing comes following recent findings that DCFS was not respecting the needs of LGBTQ youth in care. An investigation by the auditor general looked into how many LGBTQ children were under the care of DCFS and the number of providers deemed “clinically appropriate” for the kids. The audit – which was spearheaded by a resolution previously passed by Morrison – found the agency "does not collect sufficient information regarding whether those in care are LGBTQ."

Read more: Morrison calls on DCFS to provide better care for LGBTQ youth

Ellman, Yang Rohr host Mobile Museum of Tolerance in Naperville

NAPERVILLE – Residents will have the opportunity to tour the Mobile Museum of Tolerance when it makes a stop in Naperville at the beginning of November.

State Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) and State Representative Janet Yang Rohr (D-Naperville) have teamed up to host the museum Nov. 1 - 3 at the 95^th Street Library, located at 3015 Cedar Glade Drive in Naperville. The museum will be open to the public noon to 6 p.m. all three days.

Read more: Ellman, Yang Rohr host Mobile Museum of Tolerance in Naperville

Loughran Cappel declares Oct. 28 First Responders Day in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois first responders will now be honored on Oct. 28, thanks to the help of State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel.

Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) championed a measure that declares Oct. 28, 2021 First Responders Day in Illinois.

Read more: Loughran Cappel declares Oct. 28 First Responders Day in Illinois

Senator Morrison to host hearing on audit of treatment of LGBTQ youth in DCFS care

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) will lead a hearing Tuesday to further dive into a recent audit that found the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services was not respecting the needs of LGBTQ youth in care.

“LGBTQ youth in care are disproportionately likely to become homeless and deal with mental health struggles,” Morrison said. “We must ensure all children are placed in understanding environments that accept them and support their authentic selves.”

Read more: Senator Morrison to host hearing on audit of treatment of LGBTQ youth in DCFS care