HONORING THE LIFE OF RICK GARCIA

On 2026-01-20, Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL-5) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE OF RICK GARCIA" in the House. The speech addressed infrastructure and also covered LGBTQ rights, civil rights. It referenced legislation: S1988.

HONORING THE LIFE OF RICK GARCIA

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 13 (Tuesday, January 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 13 (Tuesday, January 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E56-E57] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE OF RICK GARCIA _____ HON. MIKE QUIGLEY of illinois in the house of representatives Tuesday, January 20, 2026 Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Rick Garcia--an LGBTQ+ rights leader, community organizer, and above all, a man who knew how to create [[Page E57]] change for the betterment of LGBTQ+ people statewide. Garcia advocated through decades long fights to pass city, county, and state-wide ordinances that banned discrimination against members of the LGBTQ+ community. His dedication to meaningful change has left a lasting impact throughout Illinois, and in the memories of all who were lucky enough to have worked with him throughout his career. Garcia was the principal founder of Equality Illinois, the largest organizational voice for LGBTQ+ rights in Illinois. As executive director, he worked directly with Chicago, Cook County, and Illinois governments to codify marriage equality and fight against the worst forms of discrimination. He was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in 1999. Garcia knew how to unite communities for change, and how to bridge divides to ensure change was not only all-encompassing, but long- lasting. He was a member of the ``Gang of Four,'' an activist group that played a critical role in the passing of Chicago's 1988 Human Rights Ordinance. Garcia was also an involved member of the Roman Catholic community on behalf of LGBTQ+ people of faith. He united Chicagoans from both major political parties in pursuit of justice and equality for all. We remember and honor Rick Garcia as not only a dedicated activist, but a force for good in every community he touched. May his memory be a blessing. Mr. Speaker, I ask everyone to join me in recognizing Rick Garcia for his tireless commitment to equality in Chicago and honoring his legacy. ____________________