SPRINGFIELD, IL (December 13, 2020) - The Coalition of Rainbow Alliances (CORAL) believes that health care is a fundamental human right and that no one should be denied health care on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation. We recognize that trans people face a multitude of barriers to receiving affordable, comprehensive, and compassionate health care[1].
Illinois has taken multiple steps to prevent healthcare discrimination within our state. The Illinois Human Rights Act, the Illinois Insurance Code, and the Illinois Administrative Code all prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in health care settings including in the offering and provision of health insurance coverage[2].
Elected officials, at all levels of government, represent the people. As President Lincoln reminds us, we have a government ‘of the people, by the people, and for the people.’ That means all people, regardless of their gender identity or who they love. Our elected officials have a duty to uphold the law and make sure all rights are protected.
CORAL stands with our trans friends and family and affirms the basic human rights as outlined by the Illinois Human Rights Act. We support the Illinois chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union and their work to defend those rights in our community[3]. Trans people deserve quality health care and an elected city government that respects those rights.
Coalition of Rainbow Alliances. Uniting the Springfield & Central Illinois LGBT Community. Established in 2000, CORAL is a non-profit volunteer group that facilitates networking for the Central Illinois lesbian, gay, bisexual, & transgender community, their families, friends, & the organizations that support them.
[1] Transgender Law Center - https://transgenderlawcenter.org/resources/health/transgender-health-and-the-law-identifying-and-fighting-health-care-discrimination [2] Illinois Governor’s Office - https://www2.illinois.gov/IISNews/21752-Pritzker_Administration_Affirms_Illinois_Nondiscrimination_Protections_Press_Release.pdf [3] ACLU Illinois - https://www.aclu-il.org/en/news/springfield-woman-files-charge-challenging-citys-anti-transgender-employee-insurance-plan
