State Treasurer Michael Frerichs Honors Illinois Leaders in Celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month

AIDS Foundation Chicago CEO, About Face Theatre Artistic Director, 44th Ward Chicago Alderman Among Recipients

State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today hosted a celebration to honor LGBTQ+ History Month and highlight the accomplishments of leaders in Illinois' LGBTQ+ community.

The event was an opportunity to reflect on the significant achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people, and their allies. Frerichs presented awards to leaders in business, community service, education, government, labor, sports, and arts and humanities.

"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 at the awards luncheon in the state government building at 555 W. Monroe St. in Chicago. "We thank these principled leaders for their inspiring work and unwavering commitment."

Treasurer Frerichs honored the following individuals:

Outstanding Service in Business

Carol Himmel

Co-Owner/Executive Chef, Himmel's | Owner, Erich's Lehigh Auto Body Inc.

Outstanding Service in Leadership

John Peller

President and CEO | AIDS Foundation Chicago

Outstanding Commitment to Community Service

Robert Castillo

LGBTQ+ Activist and Community Organizer

Outstanding Commitment to Education

Jin-Soo Huh

Senior Director, Partnerships & Innovation | Education Leaders of Color

Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official

Honorable Bennett Lawson

Alderman, 44th Ward | City of Chicago

Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor

Lauren Sugerman

National Policy Director (retired) | Chicago Women in Trades

Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship

Marcia Hill

Athlete, Coach, Manager, League Commander, Sports Official, and Board Member | Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association

Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities

Megan Carney

Artistic Director | About Face Theatre

LGBTQ+ History Month started in 1994. Rodney Wilson, then a Missouri high school teacher, believed there should be a month devoted to educating students about the historical importance of gays and lesbians. He worked with other teachers and community leaders in selecting October because schools are open then and because important events in LGBTQ+ history, such as National Coming Out Day, take place in October. The month grew over time, receiving endorsements from organizations including GLAAD and the National Education Association.

About the Treasurer

The Illinois State Treasurer's Office is a powerful economic engine that invests in people to drive prosperity, development and growth throughout the state. As State Treasurer, Michael Frerichs (FRAIR'iks) is the state's Chief Investment and Banking Officer and actively manages approximately $60 billion. The investments help families pay for college and trade school; workers save for a dignified retirement; and local governments process bill payments more efficiently so they can pass along the savings to taxpayers. The office provides financial institutions with money to loan to farmers, small business owners, and qualified individuals at below-market rates because better jobs create stronger communities. The office operates the state's largest consumer-protection initiative, the missing money ICash program, which has returned a record-breaking $2.65 billion since Frerichs was elected.