National Minority Health Month serves as a time to raise awareness about the importance of addressing health care disparities and access gaps that continue to limit a range of critical care services for minority populations. This year’s theme, “Health Unlocked: Access, Alignment, Action,” recognizes the evolving issues in health care nationally and urges us to take steps to protect our communities.

Illinois has worked to address health care disparities and access gaps in its communities through the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus’s Health and Human Services Pillar, which focused on creating a more equitable and inclusive health care system in the state.

According to the Department of Human Services Health Outcomes Report 2024, because of the work done leading up to the pillar, key health outcome disparities in Illinois were identified across multiple fields including maternal and infant health, chronic diseases and trauma experiences.

The fourth pillar, sponsored by State Senator Mattie Hunter, directed the state to take steps to reduce maternal and infant mortality, improve access to mental health care and substance abuse treatment, and train medical providers to recognize and overcome implicit bias.

Across Illinois, many organizations, the Department of Public Health, Department of Health and Human Services and others continue to host health fairs and awareness campaigns to connect neighbors to resources they need and spread awareness about disparities affecting communities.

To learn more about National Minority Health Month, click here.