Speaker Welch Receives Champion Legislator for Health Equity Award

CHICAGO, Ill. – Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch received the Champion Legislator for Health Equity award at Equal Hope’s Celebrating Life Gala earlier this month, crediting his commitment to health equity and eradication of structural racism across Illinois.

"Health care is a human right, and we know that when we build a more equitable system, we are helping people live healthier, happier, and more fulfilled lives,” said Speaker Welch. “Equal Hope has already proven that we can break down systemic barriers and decrease health disparities. By working together, we can provide the resources and care our communities need.”

Equal Hope was established in 2008 in response to disturbing research which showed Chicago’s African American women were 62% more likely to die from breast cancer compared to white women. Equal Hope developed a collaborative, evidence-based model to tackle these health disparities and designed targeted interventions to disrupt inequities. Thanks to their efforts, Equal Hope released new research in 2017 showing that Chicago became the number one city in the nation in reducing breast cancer deaths for African American women. Equal Hope has now expanded that model to address other cancers in women and to address disconnection from primary care services.

“I’m incredibly grateful to have received this recognition, especially for a cause I hold so close to my heart,” said Speaker Welch. “But I’m even more thankful to know that Illinois has champions, like Equal Hope, to ensure that Illinois is the best place to call home.”