First LGBTQ Advisory Board Created In Aurora

AURORA, IL — Aurora City Council made history Tuesday night when it unanimously voted to create the city's first Lesbian, Bi-Sexual, Gay, Transgender and Queer Advisory Board.

The nine-member board will advise the city concerning the needs of its LGBTQ community. Its purpose will also include several tasks:

• Organize, support or promote events recognizing each June as Pride Month within the city.
• Encourage the education, advocacy and community involvement of the city’s LGBTQ youth.
• Help promote greater awareness and cross-cultural understanding of the LGBTQ community.
• Recommend measures designed to enhance the overall quality of life for the LGBTQ community.
• Coordinate and participate in educational programs for the LGBTQ community.

The city's newest advisory board will be managed by the Mayor's Office of Community Affairs, which also leads the city's equity and inclusion initiatives. The office also manages the African-American Heritage Advisory Board, Hispanic Heritage Advisory Board, Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board, and Human Relations Commission.