Congressmen Bill Foster and Sean Casten Host LGBTQ Panel
Congressman Bill Foster and Congressman Sean Casten hosted a panel discussion on issues faced by the LGBTQ community.
"We're part way along a difficult and continuing path in this country. That things are better in the suburbs, things are not perfect. And that it's never going to be easy for someone struggling with their gender identity and they deserve support from the community and not being pushed aside or ridiculed," said Congressman Foster.
LGBTQ Youth
About 40 Naperville residents attended the event at DuPage Unitarian Universalist Church. Executive officers from 360 Youth Services and Youth Outlook talked about the resources they offer for LGBTQ youth.
Three students from the organizations also shared their stories and struggles.
"Starting with about a year and a half ago my senior year of high school my dad said, ‘hey by the last day of your graduation I want you out of my house.' And yeah, we didn't get along well," said Grey Riley, student from 360 Youth Services.
Naper Pride
Also on the panel was Denika McMillen from newly formed group, Naper Pride. She spoke about inclusionary family events like movie night that they will begin hosting.
Congressman Casten feels positive progress is being made.
"And getting people to understand that we are so close. I mean if we can pass the equality act into law and get trump to sign it. Now think about how insane that sounds, right. But sometimes the way to do that is with a lot of political pressure," said Congressman Casten.
The panel ended with a Q&A session.