IDPH celebrates Pride month, highlights health services for LGBTQIA+ community

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) — The Illinois Department of Public Health is joining Illinois residents in celebrating 2025 Pride Month throughout June. The department will showcase programs and services that improve the health and wellness of the state’s diverse LGBTQIA+ community.

IDPH will participate in Chicago’s Pride Parade on June 29, which features the theme “United in Pride.” A full list of Pride festivals across the state can be found at Pride Festivals in Illinois | Enjoy Illinois.

“During Pride Month, IDPH is proud to join the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies in celebrating unity and common purpose,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “We recognize the importance of every resident being their true and authentic selves, and we are proud to partner with individuals and organizations to improve the health and well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community.”

IDPH offers various programs addressing the unique health concerns of the LGBTQIA+ community. Recently, the department issued a standing order allowing pharmacists to provide HIV prevention medication, known as PrEP, without a doctor’s prescription.

Additionally, IDPH’s Division of Vital Records has implemented changes making it easier for individuals to change their sex designation on birth records. The department has also worked with Equality Illinois to ensure parental designation fields on state birth records are more inclusive for same-sex and transgender couples.

IDPH provides programs and services to address primary health issues and concerns of the LGBTQIA+ community, ensuring equitable and welcoming environments. The department has engaged in staff training on culturally sensitive language and compliance with non-discrimination rules and laws. IDPH has also adopted a policy of gender-neutral restrooms for all single-stall facilities in its offices statewide.