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Some years, during Black History Month, I am laden with the heavy feeling that it is much too dangerous to look away from today, to look back. I hear: Take a peek, maybe, but please - Black Man, Black Woman, Black Person, Black Child - do not stay here for long.

I cannot stay here because the work of the ancestors is not done, and we must keep watch.

Planned Parenthood of Illinois’ doors will stay open – no matter what. We will continue to support our patients and ensure they get the care they need when they need it, so they have the power to control their own future and destiny.

This year, as more and more states across the country are voting on bans against transgender athletes, it’s more important than ever to take a stand. These bans specifically target transgender girls and women, and are quickly becoming an excuse for people to push transphobic rhetoric. Queer athletes deserve to compete without being subject to homophobia and/or transphobia. And schools have a responsibility to ensure that queer youth have the same access to sports as their peers.

Starting an open conversation with your partner can feel intimidating, but once you’ve done it, you’ll quickly see how it can build trust and deepen the mutual connection between you. And that connection may carry over into the bedroom and make sex even more fun.

So, dive in, start that conversation, and let your partner know how you feel. You deserve to feel safe, connected, and respected.

Indigenous Women Rising co-founder Rae Guerra-Lorenzo on why they support abortion access: Our reproductive health, including abortion care, is sacred. Our children are sacred because they are the entities into which we pour our time and love because we want to, not because we are forced to.

This week is Transgender Awareness Week, a time to raise visibility about transgender people and address issues faced by members of the community.

If you’re not already taking action, now is the time to start.

The Affordable Care Act open enrollment period is happening now through January 15. During this period, you can get both yourself and your family covered. We can help you navigate all of the available choices and find the health insurance plan that best fits your needs.

I am proud to be an abortion provider in Illinois, especially at a time when access is hanging by a thread in some parts of the country. Since Texas enacted its unconstitutional 6-week abortion ban and other states—including some of Illinois’ neighbors—are considering similar measures, we need everyone to fight to defend abortion access.

The small act of offering your pronouns and respecting others’ is a powerful way to spark inclusivity and normalize the gender spectrum. Keep reading to learn why it’s so important to get it right.