CHICAGO – The Senate held a joint hearing Monday to discuss the vast disparities Illinoisans face in access to treatment for addiction and mental health disorders. State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) advocates for prioritizing mental health through a holistic approach.

“It’s crucial that we examine the intersections of mental health, bias and incarceration rates,” said Van Pelt, chair of the Senate Public Health Committee. “One in five people shot and killed by the police suffered from mental illness. People who should be getting treated for their illnesses are instead being abused, killed and locked up. We must begin to look at these issues differently.”

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CHICAGO – As the global pandemic continues to reveal racial disparities in the health care system, State Senators Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) and Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) called for massive reforms as part of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus (ILBC)’s fourth pillar agenda.

“In order to truly fix the issues of health disparities amongst African Americans, it is important that we examine the root causes,” Hunter said. “For centuries, Black people have been disrespected, abused and misused in the name of health care. Though we cannot solve these issues overnight, we can start by addressing our afflictions piece by piece.”

“Black people have always been at the bottom of the totem pole in this country,” Van Pelt said. “Due to grave injustices regarding access to quality and affordable care, we are more susceptible to various illnesses, including COVID-19. We need a strategic plan that implements real and lasting change in order to reach true equity in our health care systems.”

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CHICAGO – During Women’s Small Business Month, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will host a series of virtual webinars titled, “All in for Women: BIG Webinars”, and State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) is encouraging businesswomen to take advantage of the opportunity.

“It’s important that women are equipped with all the resources they need as they move up in the business world,” Van Pelt said. “These webinars are specified to the needs of women in business, and will be especially useful during the pandemic.”

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