Healthcare
Everyone in Illinois should have access to safe and legal abortions. Period. Abortion is a medical procedure undertaken by so many in times of need and distress. To politicize it and make it a stigma has led to the misconception that abortions are only done voluntarily, and that is simply not true. I will work to ensure that access in Illinois is maintained and that we have the support necessary for people traveling from out of state to seek care until this right is reaffirmed at the Federal level. I will also ensure Illinoisans continue to have access to affordable contraceptives.
I also believe healthcare costs are out of control. A medical emergency should not put an individual or family into debt. I am concerned that the merging of for-profit healthcare systems will lead to less choice for care and less competitive pricing for already expensive services. The state should implement oversight into the cost of care to ensure health systems do not take advantage of patients.
The Environment
We are experiencing increasingly catastrophic weather events due to the effects of climate change. I believe we need to continue to transition to renewable energy sources and away from fossil fuels. Electric Vehicles are an increasingly popular choice for consumers, and we must update our infrastructure to meet the demand for EV travel. Currently, a driver can fill up on gas on almost any street corner or highway exit. We must work toward making EV charging as readily available.
Gun Safety
Illinois must reinstate the assault weapons ban that was allowed to expire in 2004. I do not believe civilians should have access to high power, high capacity weapons. I believe that any citizen who wants to own a gun should pass a background check that searches for violent offenses nationwide. Further, they should pay insurance for the gun, and pass periodic testing to prove they can operate the gun in a safe manner. These requirements are in place for drivers and car owners, why should we expect less of gun owners?
LGBTQ+ Rights
Members of the LGBTQ+ community deserve to marry, just like heterosexual couples. The supreme court has made it clear that they are considering taking up other cases that would potentially erode the rights given to same-sex couples in the Obergfell v. Hodges ruling. Same-sex marriage became law in Illinois in 2014, and I will ensure it remains the law.
Despite Title VII and the Illinois Human Rights Act stating that discrimination on the basis of sex and gender identity is illegal, members of the LGBTQ+ community still face discrimination in the workplace. Required workplace trainings under the Human Rights Act should be expanded to include discrimination based on sex and gender identity.
Education
American history is complex and full of moments to be proud of, but there are also injustices and violence that must be acknowledged and taught in schools.
I also believe in the value of comprehensive sex education and teaching consent.
I believe public schools should all offer art, music, and theater programs as part of their curriculums, and not just as electives or after school programs.
