On Oct. 24, LGBTQ+ Illinois state Rep. Kelly Cassidy received the 2025 Legacy Award from The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence (The Network) for her extensive work supporting gender-based violence survivors and services, according to a release from the Illinois House Democratic Caucus.
Among other efforts, Cassidy co-sponsored Karina’s Law (House Bill 4144), which strengthens protections for domestic violence victims who have orders of protection in place by allowing judges to remove firearms from dangerous offenders.
In addition, she has also aided survivors by helping to hone how the state’s Prisoner Review Board treats gender-based violence cases by giving them a stronger voice in hearings, among other things. Related legislation also allows transfer hospitals to grant service vouchers for survivors’ necessary medical care and follow-up appointments.
“Advocating for survivors of gender-based violence means consistently looking at our laws to ensure that no victim is falling through the cracks when seeking necessary and, at times, life- saving care,” Cassidy said in a statement. “I’m thankful for this recognition, but ultimately, I’m proud to work alongside groups like The Network to improve how we approach survivor-based care and protect patients recovering from traumatic, life-altering experiences.”
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