SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) led a measure to establish the first day of April 2022 as day of remembrance and honor for those who have lost their lives to the COVID-19 pandemic and front-line workers.

“This pandemic has taken so much from us, including many of our loved ones,” Hunter said. “I want to ensure that those who lost their lives to COVID-19 are recognized and remembered.”

The Illinois Department of Public Health has reported nearly 2.8 million cases across Illinois and nearly 20,000 COVID-19 related deaths. More Illinoisans have died of COVID-19 than those who passed serving in World War I, World War II and the Vietnam War combined.

April 1 was chosen as Remembrance Day in reference to the day Governor Pritzker extended the two-week stay-at-home order in 2020, signaling that the COVID-19 pandemic would endure for the foreseeable future.

“Getting COVID-19 is a serious health risk, and though we believe the worst of it is over, it is still important to protect yourselves and others against the virus,” Hunter said. “I encourage everyone to stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots.”

New York and Maryland have passed similar legislation.