Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is observing Pride Month in June by participating in various events across the state and highlighting its programs and services for the LGBTQIA+ community.

“We join with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies across Illinois in the celebration of Pride,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Health and well-being center around the ability of every resident to be their true and authentic selves. IDPH is proud to partner with and learn from individuals and organizations around the State this month and every month to improve the health and well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community.”

IDPH staff are participating in numerous Pride events throughout June, including a prominent presence at Springfield Pridefest on May 18. Representatives will also join other state agencies' staff at the annual Chicago Pride Parade on June 30.

As part of its commitment to health equity, IDPH offers several programs addressing unique health concerns within the LGBTQIA+ community. These include services through the IDPH Division of Vital Records to ensure records accurately reflect an individual’s gender identity.

Under a state law effective January 2023, individuals can change their sex designation on birth records by submitting an affidavit, a Certificate of Correction Request Form, a photocopy of their ID, and a $15 payment. The designation options are M, F, or X. Previously, such changes required a physician-completed form.

Additionally, since 2020, IDPH has worked with Equality Illinois to make parental designation fields on state birth records more inclusive for same-sex and transgender couples. Parents can now choose designations as Mother/Parent, Father/Parent, or Parent.

IDPH provides various programs addressing primary health issues within the LGBTQIA+ community to ensure equitable service provision in welcoming environments. To further this goal, IDPH trains staff and partners on culturally-sensitive language use and compliance with non-discrimination rules. The department has also adopted gender-neutral restrooms for all single-stall facilities statewide.