Southern Illinois mothers rally in Carbondale for family support policies

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) — Mothers, caregivers and community members gathered in Carbondale on Mother’s Day to call for increased support for Illinois families amid rising health care, childcare and food costs.

The event, called “More Than Flowers: A Mother’s Day Action,” was held Monday at the Town Square Pavilion in downtown Carbondale. Organizers said the gathering aimed to highlight financial struggles facing families in Southern Illinois and encourage state lawmakers to support progressive revenue proposals.

Speakers shared personal stories about challenges related to health care, childcare affordability and food insecurity. Advocates also criticized federal proposals they say would reduce funding for programs families rely on, including SNAP benefits and health coverage.

The event was organized by Citizen Action/Illinois in support of proposals backed by the Illinois Revenue Alliance.

“Mother’s Day is a time to honor the women who raise us — but flowers and cards aren’t enough when mothers across Illinois are struggling to keep their families afloat,” said Anusha Thotakura, executive director of Citizen Action/Illinois.

Organizers cited concerns over potential federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP benefits, saying many Illinois families with children rely on those programs for support.

Advocates called on Illinois lawmakers to approve several revenue proposals, including measures targeting offshore corporate tax havens, taxing billionaire wealth gains, taxing digital advertising revenue and closing corporate tax loopholes tied to federal tax policies.

Citizen Action/Illinois said the proposals would help fund health care, childcare and nutrition programs for families across the state.

Citizen Action/Illinois is a statewide public policy and political coalition focused on health care access, economic justice and consumer rights.