Bill > SR0594

This resolution, passed by the Illinois Senate, mourns the death of Rick Garcia, a prominent LGBTQ+ activist from Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood who passed away on January 12, 2026. The resolution highlights Garcia's lifelong dedication to fighting for equality, justice, and dignity, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community, noting his significant role in achieving legislative victories such as the Chicago and Cook County Human Rights Ordinances, the expansion of the Illinois Human Rights Act, and the legalization of gay marriage in Illinois. It also acknowledges his founding of Equality Illinois (formerly the Illinois Federation for Human Rights) and his work within government offices, while also remembering his personal qualities and his love for his late partner, Ernie Hunsperger. The Senate expresses its sincere condolences to Garcia's loved ones and will present a copy of this resolution to his family and friends as a symbol of sympathy.

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=594&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SR&SessionID=114&GA=104