Support for Our LGBTQ+ Communities

The City of Champaign supports the rights of our LGBTQ+ communities and has appointed LGBTQ+ Liaisons to provide an informed voice to the City Manager on LGBTQ+ issues in the Champaign community.  The LGBTQ+ Liaisons also work with the City’s Equity and Engagement Department to develop community and employee events, along with participating in community-wide events like the Champaign-Urbana Pride Fest and Parade. The LGBTQ+ Liaisons work collaboratively with the City’s Human Relations Commission and other City staff to promote equity and human rights for the LGBTQ+ communities.

Kris Koester, LGBTQ+ Liaison/Administrative Services Manager
Public Works Department
217-403-4700 | [email protected]

Danielle Griffet, LGBTQ+ Liaison/Police Officer
Police Department
217-351-4545 | [email protected]


Champaign Recognized for Inclusive LGBTQ+ Policies and Services

4 people standing holding Champaign Pride signs

In 2023, the City of Champaign was recognized by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation for the City’s inclusive LGBTQ+ laws, policies, and services. In the 12th Annual Municipal Equality Index (MEI), Champaign, Chicago, and Rockford were ranked as the highest rated cities in Illinois. The City of Champaign’s MEI score of 100 is the highest possible score that can be achieved. The MEI is updated annually and used to measure how inclusive municipal policies, laws, and services are for the LGBTQ+ community. The MEI rates cities on non-discrimination laws, the municipality as an employer, municipal services, law enforcement, and leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. Learn more about the Municipal Equality Index at hrc.org/mei.

The Uniting Pride (UP) Center of Champaign County is the only LGBTQ+ resource center in the greater east central Illinois region. They serve clients from Champaign County and the surrounding areas through support groups, community events, educational programming, guest speakers, referrals, and resources. They also host the annual Champaign-Urbana Pride Festival and Parade.

The University of Illinois Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations created a resource page with supports for LGBTQ+ community members here.