CHICAGO, IL – Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is championing organ donation awareness among minorities during National Minority Donor Awareness Month. Giannoulias, along with community leaders, donor families, and recipients, is highlighting the crucial need for minorities and people of color to join Illinois’ organ donation registry.
Giannoulias aims to create a positive organ donation culture in multicultural communities through outreach and education. Despite not matching transplants by race, diverse donors increase the chances of finding compatible matches. Currently, Black individuals have the highest need for organ transplants, comprising over 36% of Illinois’ transplant waitlist.
To address the disparity, Giannoulias and advocates are urging Illinoisans to register as organ donors through LifeGoesOn.com, by calling 800-210-2106, or signing up at the DMV. Through united efforts, lives can be saved and a brighter future ensured for those in need of transplants.
