House Bill HB3527 is a proposed law in Illinois that would ban schools from using mascots that reference disabilities, like Freeburg’s offensive "Midget" mascot. This is our chance to make sure schools treat people with disabilities with respect. But lawmakers need to see strong public support for this bill, and your help can make a big difference!

The opposition is organizing against this bill, and the best way to counter their efforts is by submitting a witness slip in support. This is a direct way to show legislators that people demand change.

How to Submit a Witness Slip (Takes 2 Minutes! DO THIS ASAP)
📌 Step 1: Click this link: Witness Slip Submission

📌 Step 2: At the top of the page, select "Hearing Notice For Education Policy - 3/20/2025 2:00 PM"

📌 Step 3: On the next page, click "Create Witness Slips"

📌 Step 4: You will see a list of bills discussed at this committee hearing. Click to the second page to find HB3527 - "PROHIBITED DISABILITY MASCOTS" (it should be second from the bottom).

📌 Step 5: Click the pencil and paper icon on the right.

📌 Step 6: Fill in your information.
➡️ You do NOT need to be an Illinois resident to do this!
➡️ If you are not representing an organization, you can list "Self" under the "Firm/Business" section.

📌 Step 7: Under "III. POSITION", select "Proponent" (THIS IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT—if you submit the wrong position, it cannot be corrected).

📌 Step 8: Under "IV. TESTIMONY", select "Record of Appearance Only" (this ensures your support is counted without requiring additional testimony).

📌 Step 9: Click Submit Slip.

📌 Step 10 (Optional, but important!): If the 3/19 hearing is still listed at the top of the page, repeat this process for the 3/19 hearing as well. This will maximize your impact!

For a step-by-step guide on how to submit a proponent witness slip, watch this video by Rachel Wherley: Facebook Video Link

Why This Matters
Lawmakers pay attention to witness slips when deciding how to vote on a bill. If we outnumber the opposition, it increases the likelihood that this bill will pass and set a precedent for other states.

Your support is critical in this fight for dignity and respect for people with disabilities. Please take two minutes to submit your witness slip and share this update widely!