CHICAGO–Of the many personal, medical and legal challenges faced by transgender Illinoisans, Equality Illinois, The John Marshall Law School and the Seyfarth Shaw law firm are teaming up to try to make the legal issues a little easier to manage.
Equality Illinois and John Marshall are launching a Gender Marker and Name Change Legal Project to help people work through the maze of county, state and federal government offices, their forms and the fees they must navigate to live their true gender identity. The program will be assisted by Seyfarth Shaw.
“We are excited to initiate this great partnership with The John Marshall Law School and its students in the school’s Pro Bono Program and Clinic and with Seyfarth Shaw,” said Brian C. Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Equality Illinois, which is now celebrating its 25th year advocating for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Illinoisans.
“By establishing the gender marker and name change project, the law school is helping transgender Illinoisans navigate a sometimes confusing and intimidating legal process while also educating law students how an action like a name or gender marker correction can help improve someone’s life,” Johnson said. “In the wake of the violence against LGBT people in Orlando, this is another way that we can stand up for the dignity of all Illinoisans and ensure that our state remains a welcoming and affirming place.”
Read the full story at The Illinois Eagle.
