General Updates from Senator Mike Simmons
Dear Neighbor,
I wanted to fire off a special edition newsletter with some new and interesting content. First, I had the chance to do an in-depth interview about my 7th District youth-inspired legislation that will soon create the first statewide youth mental health policy council. See the link to the full interview below.
I also participated in a Chicago Tribune series profiling Illinois’s role in the Underground Railroad. It is compelling that so many brave individuals fled slavery and found freedom through Illinois. A branch of my own family on my mother’s side was living in Michigan as early as 1846 and likely participated in this history. See below for the full story.
Lastly, you’ll see a graphic below for our next traveling office hours event at Senn High School on Oct. 3. This time we will be curating the town hall for 7th District youth. Enjoy the newsletter and have a safe weekend!
Sincerely,
Mike Simmons
State Senator | 7th District
Senator Simmons Discusses Youth Mental Health on Outside the Loop Radio
Caption: Senator Simmons interviewed by Outside the Loop Radio discussing youth mental health.
I recently spoke with Outside the Loop Radio to discuss youth mental health in Illinois and Senate Bill 4028 .
The legislation requires schools to teach students how and where to access mental health resources and establishes a statewide Student Mental Health Council including youth ages 14–25 from diverse backgrounds.
Listen to the full interview (segment begins at 16:05)
Underground Railroad in Illinois
Chicago Tribune feature by Darcel Rockett
Caption: Underground Railroad historic sites across Illinois (Chicago Tribune / Terrence Antonio James).
Excerpt from the Chicago Tribune feature highlighting Senator Mike Simmons’ reflections on Illinois’ Underground Railroad history.
Recognition of Illinois’ role in the Underground Railroad is long overdue. It is a deep honor to contribute to this work highlighting the untold stories of Black communities and freedom seekers.
Read the full article: Chicago Tribune Underground Railroad feature
Calling All Youth: Traveling Office Hours at Senn High School
Join me on Tuesday, October 3 from 4–5 PM at Senn High School for Traveling Office Hours focused on youth voices across the 7th District.
We want to hear from students of all ages about their concerns and ideas for the future of Illinois.
Thank you for reading. If you would like to reach our office, please call 773-769-1717 or email
