The Daily Journal staff report | May 15, 2019

Illinois is one step closer to becoming a trauma-informed state.

Senate Resolution 99 and House Resolution 248, sponsored by state Sen. Julie Morrison and Rep. Karina Villa, designates May 15 as Illinois’ Inaugural Trauma-Informed Awareness Day to highlight the impact of trauma and the importance of prevention and resilience through trauma-informed care.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a proclamation recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month and May 15 as Trauma-Informed Awareness Day in Illinois. The proclamation mentions that addressing the effects of trauma in children, youth, adults and families is fundamental to the future.

The proclamation also encourages state officers, agencies and employees whose responsibilities impact children and adults to become aware of evidence-based and trauma-informed care practices, tools and interventions that promote healing and resiliency.

“Trauma-Informed Awareness Day calls attention to the impact of trauma and early adversity on individuals, families and communities. It also promotes the idea that we can work together to prevent trauma and promote resilience, healing, and thriving across our state,” said Kate Reed, Pledge for Life Partnership Drug-Free Communities project coordinator.

The Illinois ACEs Response Collaborative recognized Kankakee and Iroquois counties for making strides toward becoming a trauma-informed community.

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