Alerts
IFI E-Alert: Last Call for IFI Voter Guides
With just about three weeks left before February 2nd, it's time to get serious about the upcoming elections!
IFI is quickly running out of Voter Guides. In fact, we only have a few thousand of our full version printed Voter Guides left. We'd really like to get the remaining Guides out our door by the end of this week.
This is our last call. If you'd like a printed copy of the Voter Guide or if you can help us distribute bulk copies to your church, friends, and neighbors, click HERE or call the IFI office at 708-781-9328 during normal business hours. We can mail the Voter Guides to you, or you can pick them up at our office.
Knowing what the candidates you vote for believe is critical, especially in the state legislature where only one or two votes can decide issues concerning both life and religious freedom.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Illinois Lottery's "Joy to the World" Ad Promotes False Hope
The Illinois Lottery is currently airing radio and television ads promoting scratch-off lottery tickets during the Christmas season campaign. The new ad campaign corrupts the traditional Christian hymn "Joy to the World" in attempt to mislead Illinois citizens into thinking that the miniscule chance of winning a lottery prize could buy them happiness.
But even more than that, the song's deep meaning celebrating the birth of the Savior as it proclaims "Joy to the world, the Lord is come!" is being perverted to sell a false hope of a different kind of "savior" -- money and the love of it.
Take ACTION: Click HERE to contact Jodie Winnett, the Acting Supervisor of the Illinois Lottery, to ask her to stop misusing the true message of the season to promote its predatory lottery tickets which only push people deeper into debt and despair.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Video Gambling Ban Vote in McHenry County
McHenry County Board Members need to hear from you today!
Thanks to our state lawmakers, Illinois has a new gambling law which allows video gambling machines in local establishments where liquor is served. In other words, we will soon have mini-casinos in neighborhoods throughout Illinois -- at our favorite family restaurants (Applebee's, Portillo's, Pizza Hut, etc), banquet halls, bowling alleys, truck stops and corner taverns.
In response to this anti-family legislation, DuPage and Lake County Boards voted unanimously to pass legislation banning video poker in unincorporated areas of those counties. Then, on October 6th, Cook County followed by passing similar legislation. Dozens of other local municipalities are also considering similar protective measures to ban video gambling machines in their communities.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Stop Government Takeover of Your Health Care!
Contact Illinois' U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Roland Burris and urge them to oppose the Senate health care bill, which may be up for a vote within the next day or two.
The U.S. Senate health care "reform" bill, H.R. 3590, will massively expand government's control over your health care, ration your access to health care, and fund abortions with your tax dollars, to name just a few of the dangerous aspects of this bill -- which is 2,074 pages long and will cost taxpayers more than $849 billion over 10 years.
Take Action: Call Senators' Durbin and Burris and let them know you don't want the government making your health care decisions, raising your taxes to pay for it and using your tax dollars to pay for abortions. Tell them to vote against bringing the bill to the floor.Sen. Durbin
(202) 224-2152 - Washington D.C.
(312) 353-4952 - Chicago
(217) 492-4062 - Springfield
(618) 998-8812 - Marion
Sen. Burris
(202) 224-2854 - Washington D.C.
(312) 886-3506 - Chicago
(217) 492-5089 - Springfield
(618) 529-7471 - Carbondale
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: U.S. Senate to Vote on Confirmation of Activist Judge
Federal Issues
This week, the U.S. Senate is expected to vote on the nomination of Judge David Hamilton to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. The Seventh Circuit Court is based at the Dirksen Federal Building in Chicago. It is one of thirteen United States courts of appeals, composed of eleven judges. Once appointed as a federal judge, they hold their seats until they resign, die, or are removed from office.
Hamilton, a former ACLU board member, has issued rulings that allow prayer in state legislatures to Allah but not Jesus and protected sex offenders from giving updated information including email addresses and online logins to authorities. He even inappropriately obstructed a law requiring informed consent regarding abortion in Indiana for years until overturned and rebuked. These actions and rulings were all reversed by the Seventh Circuit Court.
Read more...
IFI Update: Congressional Healthcare Vote Imminent, Call Now
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Fransico) recently introduced her "new and improved" plan to facilitate a government takeover of the health care system. This 1,900+ page bill is nearly twice as long as the one proposed earlier this year that prompted the outrage at rallies and town halls across the country.
The new bill, titled "The Affordable Health Care for America Act" (H.R. 3962), has been scheduled to go to the House floor for a few hours of debate. A vote could come soon after debate concludes.
Take ACTION: Send an email or a fax to your U.S. Representative now by clicking HERE. Ask him or her to vote against H.R. 3962, the healthcare "reform" bill!
Please lift this issue up in prayer.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Speaker Pelosi to Push Healthcare Bill
U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) may push for a vote on so-called healthcare "reform" legislation in U.S. House of Representatives this week.
The bill, H.R. 3962, known as the Affordable Health Care for America Act, is more than 1900 pages long, stands nearly 9 inches tall and weighs 19 pounds. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reports the cost of the plan at a whopping $1.055 trillion over the next ten years.
Moreover, this plan will authorize tax dollars to fund elective abortions.
Take ACTION: Send an email or a fax to your U.S. Representative now by clicking HERE. Ask him or her to vote against H.R. 3962, the healthcare "reform" bill! Contact your U.S. Representative and tell him/her you oppose government run healthcare! Tell them you will be watching how they vote. Furthermore, tell them that you oppose any healthcare bill that would use your tax dollars to pay for abortions. Healthcare should be about saving lives, not destroying them.
Read more...
 | Approximately eight hundred Illinois citizens from around the state joined IFI & other Christian leaders in Springfield last year to rally, pray, and lobby for natural marriage, religious freedom, parental rights and the innocence of our children.
Click HERE to download a flyer to distribute at church and in your community. |
IFI E-Alert:: Marriage Rally and Lobby Day -- Oct. 29th
Join IFI and Illinois families from around the state to take a stand for protecting marriage, religious freedom, parental rights and the innocence of our children! Plan to bring your family, friends AND organize your church to support this rally and lobbying day. It is critically important that we have a strong showing because liberal activists continue to press for counterfiet "marriage" (SB 1716), which will affect our children and our religious freedom.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW!
Thursday, October 29th
at the Lincoln Stature on 2nd Street and Capitol Drive at Noon.
Click HERE to download a flyer to distribute at church and in your community.
Background
In May, the homosexual lobby, Equality Illinois, and its allies had fourteen lobbyists working overtime in an attempt to secure support of 60 state representatives for their "civil unions" bill. Other groups assisting in passing the measure include the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Stonewall Democrats, and Illinois Log Cabin Republicans. They may again attempt a vote during the fall veto session (October 14-16 and 28-30).
Read more...
 | CALL Mayor Daley's Office TODAY at 312-744-3300 |
IFI E-Alert: Chicago City Council's Considers Planned Parenthood Ordinance
Pro-Life Action League Plans Protest at City Hall
On Wednesday, October 7th, the Pro-Life Action League will hold a protest in front of Chicago's City Hall. The demonstration will be held in opposition to an ordinance the City Counsel will be voting on later that day. The ordinance, if passed, would restrict the access of pro-life sidewalk counselors in front of abortion clinics.
Eric Scheidler, Executive Director of the Pro-Life Action League will be holding a press conference at the site of the protest (121 N. LaSalle Street in downtown Chicago) which will begin at 9 A.M.
On September 9th, at the behest of Planned Parenthood, Alderman Vi Daley (no relation to Chicago Mayor Richard Daley) proposed an amendment to the City's Disorderly Conduct Ordinance [PDF], http://prolifeaction.org/docs/ProposedBubbleZoneOrdinance.pdf creating a 50 foot bubble zone around "health facilities."
Read more...
IFI Alert: Video Gambling Ban in Lake County
Thanks to our state lawmakers, Illinois has a new gambling law which allows video gambling machines in local establishments where liquor is served. In other words, we will soon have mini-casinos in neighborhoods throughout Illinois -- at our favorite family restaurants (Applebee's, Portillo's, Pizza Hut, etc), banquet halls, bowling alleys, truck stops and corner taverns.
In response to this anti-family legislation, the DuPage County Board voted unanimously last month to pass legislation banning video poker in unincorporated areas of the county. Dozens of other local municipalities are considering similar legislation to ban video gambling machines in their communities.
Read more...
 | Click HERE to send a message to Speaker Madigan (D-Chicago). |
IFI E-Alert: Constitution Day Protest at Speaker Madigan's Office
Voters in 30 states have been able to cast ballots to pass state constitutional amendments to protect marriage as between a man and a woman. The results have been overwhelming in defense of natural marriage, despite the fact that pro-family voters were vastly outspent by pro-homosexual activists. Clearly, Americans from Florida to Idaho, Arizona to Virginia want to take steps to permanently prevent marriage from being redefined.
Unfortunately, Illinois voters have not been given this opportunity because of one man. For the past three General Assembly sessions (6 years), a constitutional amendment to define marriage as one man and one woman has been introduced. And each year, Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) has refused to move it to a committee to be debated and voted on. If this amendment were to come before the entire General Assembly, we are confident that it would receive the two-thirds vote needed to pass. And once passed by the General Assembly, it would be placed on a ballot referendum in the next state wide election for Illinois voters to decide.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: BloomingtonTea Party Rally
The National Tea Party Express is coming to Bloomington, IL.
Miller Park
1020 S. Morris Avenue
Bloomington, IL 61701
Sunday, September 6th 5:00 P.M.
From August 28th to September 12th, the Tea Party Express bus is touring across the country hosting tea party rallies across America. We're speaking out against the out-of-control tax-and-spend policies and unprecedented power grab of our government. Please join us.
 FOX News On Bus To Cover Our Event Leading To Final Rally in Washington D.C. Sept. 12.
Please plan to attend to help change the tide of what is happening in our country. Bring a friend, bring flag or sign as well (try to keep them respectful). Feel free to bring a blanket or lawn chair. Ample parking is available.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Back to School: Parents Take Notice!
Parents, grandparents, and concerned taxpayers take notice! As your children start off a new school year, take time to get to know what's going on in your local public schools.
Your local public schools are supposed to be places where young minds are taught the basics-reading, writing, and arithmetic -- and how to think critically.
But, increasingly, they are becoming institutions where liberal and even radical social agendas are implemented, designed to undermine the truths we teach our children at home and church.
Read more...
IFI Alert: Attention Wheaton Residents!
The Wheaton City Council has introduced an ordinance to ban video gambling machines (see draft HERE) in the city.
They will consider this issue at tonight's City Council meeting at 7 P.M.
It is rare when the State Journal-Register newspaper in Springfield agrees with us, but they recently published an editorial in support of board members in DuPage County and Peoria County who are working to pass ordinances to ban the highly addictive gambling machines. (See below.)
Take ACTION: Please make a phone call or send an e-mail message TODAY to your Wheaton City Council Mayor and Council Member urging them to support this ban on video gambling.
Read more...
 | Radical activists are planning in-your-face events across the nation, including at The Bean -- a popular family and tourist destination near Millennium Park in downtown Chicago. |
IFI E-Alert: Radical Gay Activists Plan "Great Nationwide Kiss-In Events"
Illinois Family Institute is issuing a warning to families: Do not take your children to Millennium Park in the vicinity of the "Bean" on Saturday, August 15 at 1:00 p.m. Homosexual activists have planned what they are calling "The Great Nationwide Kiss-In" to take place in various public locations in thirty-five cities around the country to protest public disapproval of homosexuality, including public disapproval of homosexual kissing. Unfortunately, this event is scheduled for the same weekend as the Chicago Air and Water Show which is one of the "largest spectator events in the world" with an average of 2.2 million attendees.
On one website announcing this event, the blogger asks a series of rhetorical questions:Shouldn't everyone be allowed to kiss? Kissing isn't a bad thing, it's not obscene, vulgar or inappropriate-is it? In fact, it's a beautiful thing, I love kissing and I'm sure you love kissing too! And sometimes I like kissing my sweetie when we're out, so shouldn't we be able to kiss anywhere? Well, I'll take a stab at answering his rhetorical questions.
I think very few Americans want to pass laws outlawing kissing--even kissing that is obscene and inappropriate. And some kissing contexts are, indeed, obscene and inappropriate.
Read more...
 | (Click to enlarge.) |
IFI Alert: Attention Will County Residents!
The Will County Board has introduced an ordinance to ban video gambling machines (see draft HERE) in the unincorporated areas of the county. They will vote on the issue at their Thursday, August 13 meeting in Joliet.
It is rare when the State Journal-Register newspaper in Springfield agrees with us, but they recently published an editorial in support of board members in DuPage County and Peoria County who are working to pass ordinances to ban the highly addictive gambling machines. (See below.)
Take ACTION: Please make a phone call or send an e-mail message TODAY to your Will County Board member urging them to support this ban on video gambling.
Read more...
IFI Alert: Attention DuPage County Residents!
The DuPage County Board has introduced an ordinance to ban video gambling machines in the unincorporated areas of the county. They will vote on the issue at their Tuesday, August 11 meeting in Wheaton.
It is rare when the State Journal-Register newspaper in Springfield agrees with us, but they recently published an editorial in support of board members in DuPage County and Peoria County who are working to pass ordinances to ban the addictive gambling machines. (See below.)
Take ACTION: Please make a phone call or send an e-mail message TODAY to your DuPage County Board member urging them to support this ban on video gambling.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Government Health Care Takeover
A vote on President Barack Obama's "government healthcare reform" in Washington D.C. has been delayed until September or later. This provides additional time for citizens to communicate with their Congressmen and Senators about the issue.
The president is pushing hard to get enough federal lawmakers to support his bill (H.R.3200) to turn over health care to government control. U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is lobbying her members hard, though the moderate and conservative Democrats are pushing back.
It is critical that your member of the U.S. House of Representatives hear from you concerning this push for government health care. In spite of polls showing that nearly 80 percent of Americans say they are satisfied with the health care coverage that they currently have, Congress and the president are moving headlong toward a government takeover of the health care industry.
Take ACTION: Send an email or a fax to your U.S. Representative now clicking HERE. Ask him or her to vote against H.R. 3200, the healthcare "reform" bill! Let your U.S. Representative know that if this bill is passed, Americans will suffer more in quality of care, costs, rationing of care and the loss of control over their own medical decisions regarding their life and health.
Read more...
 | Click to enlarge poster. |
IFI E-Alert: Stop the "Hate Crimes" Bill in D.C.
Federal Issue
Liberals in the U.S. Senate are pushing for a vote on a bill which will create a new class of people by characterizing certain acts as "hate crimes" based on someone's supposed "sexual orientation" or "gender identity."
Take ACTION: 1.) Click HERE to send an email or a fax to our U.S. Senators, Dick Durbin and Roland Burris. Remind them that our laws should not create special protections for people based on their sexual behavior.
2.) Download this half-sheet flyer and distribute it to everyone you know in Illinois, including your church.
If this legislation is passed, it will add gender identity and disorder and other deviant behaviors to protected classes under federal law.
Read more...
IFI Update: State Legislators Use Sneaky Maneuver in an Attempt to Pass "Civil Unions" in Illinois
It doesn't get much stranger than this in the legislative realm. Last night, the House Youth and Family Committee took a Senate bill regarding legal procedures for court action after the defendant has died, and replaced the bill's entire language with the "Civil Unions" language of HB 2234. The number of the Senate bill (SB 1716) remains the same, but the entire nature of the bill has changed since the Senate voted on it. Now the bill will be voted on by the House to determine if the legislators will support "civil unions." If it passes in the House, it will go back to the Senate for another vote, and if they pass it, it goes before the Governor for his approval. Why are they doing it like this? Because they are running out of time to pass their bill in the House. If they stuck with the original HB 2234, it would have had to be passed in the House, then read on 3 separate days in the Senate before they could vote on it, and they could possibly run out of time since the legislative session ends May 31st.
So, with little time left, they conveniently emptied out a senate bill that had already been read three times, and filled it up with new language to legalize civil unions. Presto change-o! If the House passes it, they only have to place it before the Senate for a concurrence vote (not three readings), and they have met their time deadline. This stinks! It strikes me that the state constitutional requirement for 3 separate readings was originally designed to ensure full time for legislators to understand the bill as well as to provide the public with ample time to understand the issue and contact their legislators with their views. Last night's approach completely violates the principle of democracy and is dishonest to its very core. Any legislator who votes for this new bill is voting to persist in "the business as usual" methods that anger Illinois citizens. If you have a legislator who has said they support civil unions, please contact them and tell them they can not use a dishonest method to force this issue upon the citizens of Illinois. To do so, would inflame voters' disgust with the legislature overall and with their own legislator specifically.
Read more...
 | Don't allow misguided compassion to remove America's most basic freedoms of speech, conscience, and the free exercise of religion!
Click HERE to send an email or a fax to our U.S. Senators, Dick Durbin and Roland Burris.
Download this half-sheet flyer and distribute it to everyone you know in Illinois, including your church. |
IFI E-Alert: "Hate Crimes" Bill Moves to U.S. Senate
Federal Issue
On April 29th, the U.S. House of Representatives approved and passed H.R. 1913 by a 249-175 vote. The "Hate Crimes" bill, if signed into law, would allow courts to prosecute any crime "motivated by prejudice" against protected characteristics, which include "sexual orientation" and "gender identity."
Take ACTION: 1.) Download this half-sheet flyer and distribute it to everyone you know in Illinois, including your church. 2.) Click HERE to send an email or a fax to our U.S. Senators, Dick Durbin and Roland Burris.
Background
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has defined the broad term of "sexual orientation" to include bestiality, pedophilia *, incest, and "gender identity" disorder among 547 forms of sexual deviancy or 'paraphilias.' The APA's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) is considered the dictionary of mental disorders.
According to a WorldNetDaily article, U.S. Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-FL), a "hate crimes" supporter, agreed, saying:"This bill addresses our resolve to end violence based on prejudice and to guarantee that all Americans regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability or all of these 'Philias' and fetishes and 'ism's' that were put forward need not live in fear because of who they are. I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this rule..." * Note: While still in the House, Congressman Steve King (R-Iowa) introduced an amendment that would have eliminated pedophiles from special protection in the bill, but Democrats took it out of the final version. We suspect it was purposely left in the bill so that during the Senate debate the proponents would remove it to appear as though they compromised.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: No More Gambling!
In his Feb. budget address, Gov. Patrick Quinn spoke against an expansion of gambling in Illinois, saying "I don't think you can gamble your way to prosperity." He was absolutely correct.
Yet Springfield lawmakers continue to push bills that would legalize Internet gambling for the Lottery (SB 1654) and for horse racing (SB 1298), video gambling machines in community establishments where alcoholic liquor is served (HB 4239), and other gambling proposals as a way to pay for construction projects.
Take ACTION: This is your chance to speak up before it's too late and before it's rammed through the legislature in back room deals! Click HERE to send your lawmakers an email or a fax to tell them "NO MORE GAMBLING."
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: DuPage County to Discriminate Against Religious Assemblies?
Don't Allow DuPage County to Discriminate Against Religious Assemblies!
On April 7th the DuPage County Development Committee met in Wheaton to consider amendments to zoning ordinances which, if approved as written, would have dramatic consequences for "religious assemblies" such as churches, mosques, temples and synagogues.
The amendments provide that any "religious assembly" with three or more uses (e.g. a place of worship, an auditorium, preschool, recreational facility inside or outside, or school) could not expand on its existing property or build on new property in unincorporated DuPage County unless the plot size is at least 5 acres, and it is located next to a road rated to handle at least 10,000 vehicles per day - roads such as Roosevelt Road, North Avenue, and Illinois Route 59. FYI, Municipalities often adopt County Board ordinances so it is not just religious assemblies in "unincorporated DuPage County" that should be concerned, but ALL religious assemblies in the County.
ACTION: Please make a phone call or send E-mail message TODAY to the County Board member on the Development Committee representing your District, saying you oppose the Amendments to DuPage ordinances that prohibit growth of religious institutions & ask the Member, respectfully, to vote against the Amendments.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Will Congress Endorse GLSEN's Day of Silence?
There is a resolution before Congress asking the federal government and all public schools to officially recognize and celebrate the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network's Day of Silence and its pernicious goals, which extend far beyond the elimination of bullying.
Take ACTION: Send an email or fax to your U.S. Congressman and both U.S. Senators now -- click HERE. Ask them to oppose H. Con. Res. 92.
Background
Being an eternal optimist, every time some execrable cultural event takes place, I think, finally this will be the event that awakens the conservative masses from their moral slumber. As each travesty passes, however, and another one arrives with nary a peep from the conservative masses, I'm beginning to wonder if we've ingested a lethal dose of Ambien.
Read more...
IFI E-Reminder: Liberal Groups Lobbying for Civil Unions
Call Your State Rep. Today!!
The Illinois House is now considering a proposal (HB 2234) that would create homosexual "civil unions" in our state. This anti-family legislation passed the House Youth and Family Committee on March 5th, and is now on 3rd Reading -- the last step before a vote.
Take ACTION: Contact your state representative to preserve natural marriage in Illinois!! Click >>>HERE<<< to send an email or fax to your state representative.
You can also call the Capitol switchboard at 217-782-2000 and ask your representative to please vote 'NO' on HB 2234 and, instead, pass a constitutional amendment to preserve marriage and its unique benefits for one man and one woman. (Be assured, legislators take very seriously the calls, letters and emails they receive.)
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Protect Religious Rights of Medical Workers
Last month, the Chicago Tribune reported that the Obama administration will move to cancel "Protections for healthcare providers who choose not to participate in abortion related activities" -- a radical and disturbing gesture to Christian medical professionals!
Take ACTION: Click HERE to send a message to the White House about this important issue.
Please act today -- our conscience demands it!
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Special Election in the 5th Congressional District!
As you undoubtedly know, on Tuesday, April 7th, in a special General Election to be held in the 5th Congressional District, you and your neighbors will choose a candidate to serve the remainder of former U.S. Rep. Rahm Emanuel's term in Congress.
Republican candidate and Illinois Minuteman Project founder Rosanna Pulido and Democrat candidate and current Cook County Commissioner Mike Quigley will be on the ballot seeking this seat.
Voter Guide: Click HERE to download IFI's special Voter Guide for this special election. By printing the Voter Guide you can easily distribute this important information in your neighborhood and at your local church.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Gov. Quinn to Raise Taxes in Illinois
Here we go again! Our Springfield lawmakers are poised to push for a higher and more "progressive" personal income tax to deal with the state's debt.
Illinois Governor Patrick Quinn has only been in office for six weeks but is already pushing a plan to raise Illinois' income taxes. Also, it has been reported that the governor in his first budget address Wednesday, will ask that the annual license plate sticker fee be raised by $20 per year, up from the current $78.
Take ACTION; Click HERE to ask the governor and your state lawmakers to vote against any legislative proposal that would increase any tax burden for Illinois citizens.
Read more...
 | Click HERE to download a bulletin insert for your church.
|
IFI Alert: State FOCA Bill Moves to House Floor -- Contact Your State Rep. Today!
Pro-Life and Pro-Family citizens must contact their State Representatives in opposition to HB 2354.
Planned Parenthood is working overtime trying to pass pro-abortion legislation -- the "Freedom of Choice Act" (FOCA) -- at the state and federal level. The title of the FOCA bill here in Illinois is the "Reproductive Health and Access Act," and the bill number is HB 2354.
TAKE ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to contact your State Representative to ask him/her to vote AGAINST this pro-abortion bill.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Springfield Lawmakers Consider More Gambling
The social costs of gambling far outweigh the perceived financial benefits.
The Illinois General Assembly is again considering a number of different bills that will expand gambling in our state -- all in an effort to raise "easy" revenue to close an enormous budget hole created (in part) by irresponsible spending and a failure to plan for economic downturns. One current proposal would even create a government owned casino in Chicago.
TAKE ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to contact Governor Patrick Quinn, your State Representative and State Senator to ask them to vote AGAINST more gambling in Illinois.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Do Medical Workers Have Religious Freedoms?
President Barack Obama is considering an astonishing proposal that would eliminate the religious freedom and right of conscience for doctors and other medical workers in favor of the so-called "right" to abortion. (Read more at the American Family Association.)
Congress has upheld the First Amendment rights of doctors who believe that abortion is murder for more than 35 years now, thus protecting the right of medical workers to freely exercise their faith. But now, President Obama wants to use the heavy hand of government to make this preeminent American freedom subservient to the manufactured and illegitimate "right" that allows a mother to kill her unborn child. If the President rescinds the conscience rule, health care workers could lose their jobs or could have their professional licenses revoked for adhering to their deeply held religious beliefs.
Take ACTION: Send a message to the White House about this issue in less than 60 seconds: Click HERE.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Gay "Marriage" Bill Scrapped for "Civil Unions" Bill
Homosexual activists abandonded their push for gay so-called "marriage" to focus on the less offensive name of "civil unions."
Illinois State Representative Greg Harris (D-Chicago), has again introduced a "compromise" bill (HB 2234) to legalize homosexual "civil unions" in our state.
ACTION: This bill will be heard in the House Youth and Family Committte this Thursday. Please call the following members of this committee and ask them to VOTE 'NO' on HB 2234. (We need 4 'NO' votes to stop this bill.) Springfield needs to hear from you right away:
Read more...
IFI Reminder: March 3rd -- Special Primary Election Voter Guide for the 5th Congressional District!
Dear Neighbor,
On Tuesday, March 3rd, in a special Primary Election to be held in the 5th Congressional District, you and your neighbors will choose a candidate from each party to run in a special General Election on April 7th to serve the remainder of Rep. Rahm Emanuel's term in Congress.
There are twenty-three candidates running for this open seat -- 6 Republican, 12 Democrats and 5 Green.
Click HERE to download IFI's special three-page Voter Guide for this special election. By printing the Voter Guide you can easily distribute this important information in your neighborhood and at your local church.
Read more...
 | Take ACTION:
Ask Illinois' U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Roland Burris to vote against David W. Ogden's nomination to the Department of Justice. Click HERE |
IFI E-Alert: Oppose David Ogden, Pres. Obama's nominee to be Deputy Attorney General
You may have seen the IFI E-Alert I sent to you last week regarding President Barack Obama's nomination of David W. Ogden to be the Deputy U.S. Attorney General, the "CEO" of the Department of Justice. More than 1,200 Illinois residents have already contacted our two U.S. Senators.
Take ACTION: If you have not yet done so, please use our convenient system to send an email now -- click HERE. Ask Senators Durbin and Burris NOT to confirm someone who advocated an extreme position on a federal child-pornography statute that the Senate unanimously repudiated 16 years ago.
Read more...
 | Greg Harris
(D-Chicago) |
IFI E-Alert:: Same-Sex Marriage Bill in Youth & Family Committee!
A three-fold outrage!
Earlier this month, openly "gay" State Representative Greg Harris (D-Chicago) introduced a bill to legalize homosexual "marriage" (HB 178). And possibly the outrage is the fact that House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) has created a new committee -- the Youth and Family Committee -- which is being chaired by "gay" Rep. Harris.
Given the make-up of this particular committee, we expect this bill to pass, so our effort will be to stop this bill on the floor of the House of Representatives.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Tell Sens. Durbin & Burris to Vote Against Porn Lawyer Nominee for DOJ
President Barack Obama recently nominated David W. Ogden to be the Deputy Attorney General in the Department of Justice, which prosecutes obscenity violations. Attorney Ogden has been praised by the adult entertainment industry as a "strong pick" since he has represented pornography companies such as Playboy, Penthouse and Adam & Eve. Ogden has even defended child pornography!
Take ACTION: Ask Illinois' U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Roland Burris to vote against David W. Ogden's nomination to the Department of Justice. Click HERE to send an email or a fax to the Senators from Illinois to ask them NOT to confirm someone who advocated an extreme position on a federal child-pornography statute that the Senate unanimously repudiated 16 years ago.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Campbell's Soup Pushes the Homosexual Agenda
According to our friends at the American Family Association (AFA), Campbell's Soup will not be neutral in the culture war. The AFA reports that Campbell's will continue to use its advertising dollars to support homosexual publications pushing the homosexual agenda and counterfiet "marriage." (See the AFA alert HERE.)
Campbell's sponsored two pages of ads in both the December 2008 and January 2009 issues of The Advocate, the nation's largest homosexual magazine. The ads featured the company's Swanson line of broth. A Campbell spokesman was quoted as saying, 'Our plans for the Swanson brand include additional placements in The Advocate.'
Read more...
 | Click HERE and HERE to read Laurie's responses to two different cranky emails regarding this Macbeth review. |
IFI E-Alert: All the Perfumes of Arabia Will Not Sweeten Chicago Shakespeare Theater's Macbeth
I love Chicago Shakespeare Theater. I have seen half a dozen productions at their Navy Pier location and loved every one. I try to attend at least one play a year-as money permits. But this year, I wasted both my time and money.
For any of you who may be thinking of attending Chicago Shakespeare Theater's production of Macbeth -- be forewarned. We attended opening night on Friday, and here's what to expect from this modernized travesty:In the early scene just after Lady Macbeth has read the letter from Macbeth, Lady Macbeth removes her top and performs topless. When Macbeth arrives home, she mounts him and they simulate sex whilst the actor playing Macbeth fondles the actress' bare breasts.
After Macbeth becomes undone by the vision of Banquo's bloody head, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth retreat to their bedchambers where she performs oral sex on him.
The three scenes in which the three witches meet Hecate; Lenox and another Lord discuss the state of Denmark; and the witches make their last prophecies are set in a strip club. There is no nudity, but one of the witches wears a top which conceals little, and fishnet stockings and a leather thong over her posterior that she gyrates like a professional stripper. Take ACTION: Contact Chicago Shakespeare Theater to let them know that you will not be attending this production: Click HERE to send a mail or fax or call 312-595-5656
Read more...
 | Photos taken by Jay Barnard, the Senate Republican photographer, for the Illinois Review website. |
IFI E-Alert: Atheists Attack Religious Displays in Springfield
As we recently reported, a Nativity scene went on display in the Illinois Capitol Building in Springfield on December 2nd. Standing in the Rotunda, the manger scene -- a symbol of our Savior's birth -- is a celebration of Christmas which is both a state and federal holiday. A Menorah and a Christmas tree are also displayed, both of which represent the hope and joy of this very special time of year.
But inevitably there are citizens who are offended by any reminder of the Creator, and are compelled to promote their unbelief by attacking the religion and faith of others. So now, alongside the Nativity scene in the Rotunda, there has been erected an atheist sign in celebration of, uh, nothing. (See photo on the right.)
This atheist sign, sponsored by the Freedom From Religion Foundation of Madison, Wisconsin, points to and celebrates nothing, but in doing so, it deliberately and explicitly disparages the beliefs of people of faith. Why then, would the Illinois Secretary of State's office, which issues display permits, allow a hateful and intolerant sign to stand in close proximity to positive religious exhibits and why now?
Read more...
 | ACTION:
Click HERE to contact CPS Chief Arne Duncan and the Chicago Board of Education to express your opposition to the proposed homosexual high school. |
IFI E-Alert: Vote on State-Subsidized Homosexual High School Looms
Next week, the Chicago Board of Education will vote on the proposed Social Justice High School-Pride Campus that Chicago Public Schools CEO Arne Duncan has endorsed. Rumors are circulating that, despite Mayor Richard Daley's explicit opposition to the school, the board intends to vote in favor of it.
The Windy City Times, a Chicago newspaper serving the homosexual and "transgender" population, explains that "the school will exist as a training hub on LGBT issues and social-justice curricula for teachers, both locally and nationally. Social-justice history, practices and discussion will be embedded in the curriculum, allowing for all students, including LGBTQ youth, to find representation in the courses they are taking in school." (See "Social Justice or Educational Injustice")
Read more...
IFI E-Alert:: Marriage Rally and Lobby Day -- Nov. 19th
Join IFI and Illinois families from around the state to take a stand for protecting marriage, religious freedom, parental rights and the innocence of our children! Plan to bring your family, friends AND organize your church to support this rally and lobbying day. It is critically important that we have a strong showing because homosexual activists continue to press for counterfiet "marriage" (HB 1826), which will affect our children and our religious freedom.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW!
Wednesday, November 19th
at the Lincoln Stature on 2nd Street and Capitol Drive at 1 P.M.
State Representative Gregg Harris (D-Chicago) is on record as saying that he would be calling his counterfeit "marriage" bill for a vote during the fall veto session (November 18-20).
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: A "Gay" High School for Chicago?
Next Wednesday, October 22nd, the Chicago Board of Education will consider a proposal for a "gay"-friendly high school for homosexual and gender-confused students. The proposal already has the recommendation of School CEO Arne Duncan.
Despite the fact that 70 percent of Chicago high school students are testing below state standards and the sad reality that almost half of Chicago high school students fail to graduate, Chicago Public School (CPS) officials are seriously considering investing time, energy, and hard-earned tax dollars toward social engineering and the promotion of controversial views of homosexuality.
TAKE ACTION: Click HERE to contact CPS Chief Arne Duncan and the Chicago Board of Education to express your opposition to the use of public funds to subsidize a school that affirms disputable and divisive views on homosexuality and gender-confusion.
Read more...
 | Click HERE to order bulk quantities of the IFI Voters Guides for your church and community. |
IFI E-Alert: Order Bulk Voter Guides Now!
Election Day is now just 5 weeks away! Are you ready to vote on Tuesday, November 4?
Illinois Family Institute (IFI) can help you go to the polls prepared to vote knowledgeably and responsibly on Election Day!
TAKE ACTION: The IFI 2008 General Election Voter Guide will be ready next week, and we need your help to distribute the IFI Voter Guide to your family, church, neighborhood and elsewhere.
Click HERE to order bulk quantities of the IFI Voters Guides for your church and community. You can also call the IFI office at 708-781-9328 during normal business hours.
Read more...
 | Additional contact info:
Mr. Jim Skinner, CEO
McDonald's Plaza
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Phone: 1-800-244-6227
or: 630-623-3000
Fax: 630-623-5004 |
IFI Alert: IFI Joins AFA's Boycott of McDonald's
Back in April, IFI sent out an E-Alert informing our readers that the Oak Brook-based McDonald's Corporation had become a member of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), embracing and promoting the homosexual agenda, including homosexual marriage.
Last week, the American Family Association reported that after meeting with Dr. Don Wildmon, McDonald's Corporation refused to withdraw their support for the Chamber.
ACTION: Click HERE to send a fax to McDonald's Corporation to tell them that you will be boycotting their restaurants until they stop promoting the homosexual agenda. Additional contact information is provided to the right if you would like to call or send McDonald's a letter directly.
Read more...
 | TAKE ACTION:
Please CLICK HERE to contact Governor Blagojevich and your State Representative to ask them to vote AGAINST more gambling in Illinois. |
IFI E-Alert: Governor Calls General Assembly Into Special Session to Pass Gambling Bills
7/7/2008 11:43:00 AM By Anita Bedell, Executive Director
- ILCAAAP
The Governor called the General Assembly into special session for July 9 and 10. The Governor is urging the House to pass "revenue bills" --GAMBLING BILLS-- already passed by the Senate. Specifically, the Governor wants the House to pass HB 1496 to Lease the Lottery (50-65 yrs) and HB 2651, for massive gambling expansion that includes:
More Casinos: Two land-based casinos with 4,000 gambling positions-one owned by the city of Chicago and one owned by the State-and another casino in an economically depressed community,
More gambling/betting at racetracks: Slot machines at racetracks, betting on horses at County Fairs
Read more...
 | Phil Miatkowski
(E-Lobbyist) |
IFI E-Alert: The Push for Counterfeit "Marriage" Continues
Homosexual and anti-family activists continue to work and lobby hard for the passage of counterfeit marriage legislation.
The Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Tribune recently published an Associated Press story in their respective newspapers about how almost 9,000 people are using an Internet social networking website to lobby for HB 1826 -- a bill which would extend legal recognition and benefits of civil marriage to homosexual couples.
TAKE ACTION: Speak up!! Click >>>HERE<<< to send an email or fax to your State Representative today and ask him/her to vote 'NO' to the "Civil Unions" bill -- HB 1826. Politely tell your lawmaker that Illinois' government should not officially recognize immoral, unhealthy, and changeable homosexual behavior. (Be assured, your calls and emails are very important; legislators take very seriously the number of emails, faxes and calls they receive.)
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Illinois Teen Faces Three Years Jail Sentence for Potentially Fraudulent 'Hate Crime'
Selective prosecution illustrates danger of 'hate crimes' laws
TAKE ACTION: Click HERE to contact Champaign Co. State's Attorney Julia Rietz and ask her to drop the government's one-sided felony "hate crimes" prosecution against 18-year-old student-athlete Brett VanAsdlen.
Background
Two young men -- one homosexual, one heterosexual -- tell very different stories about an argument that occurred late on a Friday night (April 11) in this college town, but only one -- the straight student-athlete -- faces a felony "hate crime" conviction with a maximum penalty of up to three years in prison.
Brett Van Asdlen faces a Class 4 felony hate crime after originally being charged with aggravated battery following an incident in which he pushed 20-year-old homosexual University of Illinois student Steven Velasquez to the ground. The critical question is: why did he push Velasquez and who was aggressor? Van Asdlen's family says it was Velasquez who -- after Brett made a comment about Velasquez and his homosexual partner -- first "got in Brett's face," to which Brett responded by pushing Velasquez away. Velasquez claims that Brett attacked him unprovoked because of his homosexuality.
Read more...
 | Additional contact info:
Mr. Jim Skinner, CEO
McDonald's Plaza
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Phone: 1-800-244-6227
or: 630-623-3000
Fax: 630-623-5004 |
IFI Alert: McDonald's Supports Gay Agenda
McDonald's CEO: Company will put full resources behind gay agenda. McDonald's has signed on to a nationwide effort to promote "gay" and "lesbian" business ventures.
According to McDonald's CEO Jim Skinner, McDonald's will aggressively promote the homosexual agenda. In remarks on McDonald's Web site concerning the company becoming a member of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), Skinner wrote:"Being a socially responsible organization is a fundamental part of who we are. We have an obligation to use our size and resources to make a difference in the world ... and we do." The company gave an undisclosed amount of money to the NGLCC in return for being recognized as a major promoter of the homosexual agenda. In return, NGLCC placed Richard Ellis, vice president of communications of McDonald's USA, on the NGLCC Board of Directors.
Read more...
 | Look at the chart below to see how your State Senator voted, or you can download it by clicking HERE. |
IFI E-Alert: Illinois Senate Passes SB 2702 – Internet Gambling on Horses
Tell Your State Rep. 'NO More Gambling!'
The Illinois State Senate voted yesterday 37-13 (with 1 voting "present") to pass SB 2702, a bill that will expand gambling throughout the Internet. Look at the chart below to see how your State Senator voted or download it HERE.
TAKE ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to contact Governor Blagojevich and your State Representative to ask them to vote AGAINST more gambling in Illinois.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: No More Tax Dollars for Planned Parenthood!
Federal Issue
For well more than twenty years the nation's largest abortion provider has been funding large parts of its budget at taxpayer expense.
Planned Parenthood has received millions of your hard earned tax dollars, which in turn subsidize their abortion practice through Title X funding for federal family planning and pregnancy prevention funding. While Planned Parenthood claims that these funds are not used for abortion, obviously having this constant supply of tax dollars coming in as part of your budget makes all other areas of operation much easier to sustain.
ACTION: Click >>>HERE<<< to email your U.S. Representative today and ask him/her to vote 'YES' to the "Pence Amendment" -- H.R. 4133.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Is the "Day of Silence" Agenda Coming to Your Kids' School?
This year's pro-homosexual Day of Silence -- sponsored by the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network ("GLSEN") -- is scheduled for April 25th and will likely be coming to your child's public school.
TAKE ACTION: Take a stand against this type of political activism in our schools by keeping your children home from school on the Day of Silence (April 25, 2008). Join the many parents who have already determined that their children will not be exposed to this homosexual activism. CLICK HERE to add your name to the list of parents from your local school.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Gay Groups to Lobby for Counterfeit Marriage Legislation
Contact Your State Rep. Today!!
Homosexual activists with Equality Illinois, Stonewall Democrats, Illinois Log Cabin Republicans, and the ACLU of Illinois are going to the Capitol on Wednesday, April 9th to lobby for the passage of counterfeit marriage legislation -- HB 1826.
This bill would extend legal recognition and benefits of civil marriage to homosexual couples. The only difference between marriage and the governmental recognition this bill would grant is in name.
ACTION: Click >>>HERE<<< to email your State Representative today and ask him/her to vote 'NO' to the "Civil Unions" bill -- HB 1826. Politely tell your lawmaker that Illinois' government should not officially recognize immoral, unhealthy, and changeable homosexual behavior. (Be assured, your calls and emails are very important; legislators take very seriously the letters and the numbers of letters they receive.)
Read more...
 | Click HERE to see IFI's position paper on this bill.
|
IFI E-Alert: Contact Your Rep. Today About HB 4731
The "Homosexual Teachers Bill"
Ominous legislation will equate homosexual partners with married spouses.
HB 4731, sponsored by State Representative Greg Harris (D-Chicago), amends the Illinois Pension Code, to allow designated domestic partners to qualify as surviving spouses for purpose of survivor and death benefits.
As amended, HB 4731 changes the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code as well as the Chicago Teacher Article.
Read more...
Action Alert: Legislation to Legalize Marijuana as Medicine (SB 2865)
to be heard in Committee TODAY!
3/5/2008 12:00:00 PM By Anita Bedell, Executive Director
- ILCAAAP
SB 2865 creates the Alternative Treatment for Serious Diseases Causing Chronic Pain and Debilitating Conditions Act, which will be heard in the Senate Public Health Committee on Wednesday, March 5 in Room 400 at the Capitol at 1:00 p.m.
SB 2865 legalizes the growing of 12 marijuana plants and 2.5 ounces of useable cannabis for each "qualifying patient". A person does not to have to be dying or have a terminal condition to qualify for marijuana use as medicine. In states where marijuana has been legalized for medicinal purposes, it is indiscriminately being given to just about anyone for any health reason. It is even given to children with Attention Deficit Disorder.
Read more...
IFI Alert: Contact State House Members On Pro-Abortion Legislation
Pro-Life and Pro-Family citizens must contact their State Representatives in opposition to HB 5615.
Click HERE to download a bulletin insert for your church.
Representatives Barbara Flynn Currie (D-Chicago) and Rosemary Mulligan (R-Des Plaines) recently introduced HB 5615, the so-called "Reproductive and Justice Access Act." Lobbyists for the nation's largest abortion provider, Planned Parenthood, are working intensively to pass this pro-abortion legislation.
TAKE ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to contact your State Representative to ask him/her to vote AGAINST this pro-abortion bill.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: ERA is Back!
State Representative Lou Lang (D-Chicago) is again pushing the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) -- a bill that would eliminate gender distinctions and enshrine abortion as a constitutional right.
ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to contact your State Representative to ask them to vote AGAINST the Equal Rights Amendment. The ERA will not help women; instead it will harm women, their families, and our society.
Do you think that young women should have to register for the selective service (military draft) when they turn 18 years old? ERA would eliminate gender distinctions, requiring young ladies to serve in the military just as men do.
Read more...
 | February 5th! |
IFI E-Alert: Resources for Illinois' Primary Election
Make sure you're prepared to vote on Tuesday!
Illinois' primary election is just a few days away. If your schedule has changed, or if you think that you may be too busy next Tuesday to make it to your local polling place, you have just one more day to take advantage of early voting.
And, in case you missed it, I want to draw your attention to the various resources IFI has worked long and hard to compile to help you make educated decisions in the polling booth.
Read more...
 | U.S. Senatorial Candidates Mike Psak (left) and Dr. Steve Sauerberg (right) answer questions at a forum in Bolingbrook. |
IFI E-Alert: Listen to the U.S. Senate Candidates Online!
Last week, IFI and a number of local pastors held a U.S. Senatorial Candidate Forum in Bolingbrook that proved to be very helpful in getting a better understanding of the policy positions of the candidates who attended.
Candidates from both the Republican and Democratic parties were invited to this forum. While the incumbent U.S. Senator Dick Durbin -- who is running unopposed in the primary -- declined our invitation, Republican candidates Mike Psak, Andy Martin, and Dr. Steve Sauerberg participated.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: New Legislation would invalidate the Federal DOMA
Federal Issue
On December 19, shortly before Congress recessed for the holidays, members of both the House and the Senate sponsored bills that would essentially invalidate the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) passed by Congress in 1996 and signed by President Bill Clinton.
ACTION: Please click HERE to contact your U.S. Representative and encourage him/her to vote "no" on H.R. 4838 and to tell Sens. Durbin and Obama to vote "no" on S. 2521.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: U.S. Senatorial Candidate Forum in Bolingbrook!
The Illinois Family Institute would like to invite you to meet the Illinois candidates running for U.S. Senate at a forum to be held next Tuesday evening in Bolingbrook.
Republican and Democratic candidates have been invited to this forum to answer a number of questions put together by local Baptist pastors and IFI. Question topics will include abortion, homosexual marriage, foreign policy, tax policy, and more.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Maine South HS Freshman Biology Class Teaches "Birth Control Methods"
 Dear IFI Supporters,
Last April, I received an urgent call from a parent who found out that her 14-year-old freshman was being taught a complete unit on all human methods of birth control in Freshman biology at Maine South. This unit presented graphic descriptions and methods for every imaginable birth control device, including the withdrawal method, IUD's, diaphragms, and abortion.
The unit was taught in a co-ed class and required students to openly participate in discussion and do homework assignments.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Illinois House Considering More Gambling
The Illinois State House is again considering legislation that will expand gambling in our state -- all in an effort to raise "easy" revenue to finance (in part) mass transit and road construction. One current proposal would even create a government owned casino in Chicago.
TAKE ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to contact Governor Blagojevich and your State Representative to ask them to vote AGAINST more gambling in Illinois.
Read more...
 | TAKE ACTION: CLICK HERE to sign the petition. Communicate your concern about protecting families from indecent commercial content during America's favorite pastime! |
IFI E-Alert: Sign the Petition -- Ask the NFL to Prohibit Indecent Commercials During Games
A few months ago, I wrote an open letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, asking him to please help "raise the standard and do what [he] can to eliminate the indecent content aired during NFL games."
As you may remember, my original letter pointed to the sad fact that a number of advertisements and network promotional spots that are aired during NFL game breaks are completely inappropriate -- especially for the younger members of the viewing audience. The fact is, far too many of these ads are indecent and/or sexually suggestive.
With more than half the season behind us now, I am again openly appealing to Commissioner Goodell: please consider your entire fan base when licensing your programs to television networks.
Read more...
 | Please CLICK HERE to contact your legislators and ask them to vote for 'NO' to more gambling in Illinois. |
IFI E-Alert: IFI Stands Against Proposed Illinois Casino
Why oppose expanded gambling in Illinois? Just a few of the reasons why IFI opposes expanded gambling:Casinos increase crime in the categories of rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny and auto theft according to the most comprehensive study on casinos and crime.
For every dollar the state gains from casino gambling, it spends an average of three dollars on treatment for gambling addictions, crime prevention and other costs.
Gambling addictions and the ensuing debt can tear apart families through suicide, divorce, bankruptcy and criminal activity.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Join IFI and Other Pro-Life Citizens this Saturday to Rally for Life Against Aurora's New Abortion Fortress
Illinois pro-life citizens continue to pressure Planned Parenthood's new abortuary in Aurora.
This Saturday, October 27th, Fox Valley Families Against Planned Parenthood in conjunction with the Pro-Life Action League will hold a "We're Here for Life" rally in Aurora. The rally will run from 9 - 11:30 A.M.
Fox Valley Families Against Planned Parenthood is a grassroots coalition of citizens who oppose the Aurora Planned Parenthood abortion mill. The event will be held at 3051 E. New York Street and protest the recently opened Planned Parenthood facility which is one of the largest of its kind.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: URGENT! U.S. House to vote on ENDA on Wednesday!
Federal Issue
Concerned citizens must take action against pending legislation that would dramatically expand government's reach into your workplace and create unnecessary workplace conflicts and law suits.
The full U.S. House is scheduled to vote tomorrow on the Employment Non Discrimination Act (ENDA), a sweeping employer mandate to create special new legal protections based on "sexual orientation" (or "perceptions").
ACTION: Please click HERE to contact your Congressman and ask him/her to vote NO on ENDA, also known as H.R. 3685.
Read more...
 | ENDA (H.R. 2015) is sponsored by the openly homosexual Congressman Barney Frank (D-MA). |
IFI E-Alert: Homosexual Lobby Working Hard in D.C. to Pass ENDA
Federal Issue
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) may be voted on in US House this week. Please read this note and take action as recommended. Then please forward this note to everyone you know, and especially to anyone associated with a Christian business, charitable organizations, or religious school!
ENDA would prohibit employers from making employment decisions -- such as hiring, promotions and firing -- based on an individual's "actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity." While the bill purports to exempt religious groups, it really doesn't do that. The court has to decide if your purpose is sufficiently religious enough in character.
ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to tell your U.S. Representative in Washington D.C. to please vote 'NO' on ENDA!
Read more...
 | The "Hate Crimes" bill is sponsored by Sen. Ted Kennedy (D-MA), and includes a troubling & ambiguous provision adding "perceived gender identity" as a protected class. |
IFI E-Alert: Tell U.S. Senators to Vote NO on 'Hate Crimes' Bill!
Federal Issue
Hate crimes laws are actually "thought crimes" laws that violate the right to freedom of speech and of conscience. Such laws subject individuals to scrutiny of their beliefs rather than focusing on a person's criminal actions.
ACTION: The U.S. Senate is due to vote on a 'hate crimes' amendment to the Defense Authorization Bill that would give special legal protection to homosexuals. CLICK HERE to contact U.S. Senators Richard Durbin and Barack Obama TODAY and tell them to vote AGAINST this legislation!
Read more...
 | Listen to IFI's Family Update
on this issue by clicking HERE. |
IFI E-Alert: ENDA Will Force Businesses to Accept Homosexual/Transgender Behavior
Federal Issue
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) may be voted on in the US House next week!
ENDA could be the greatest threat to Christian liberty and values in America yet. ENDA is a federal law proposed by the homosexual lobby. This piece of legislation creates a special class of protection based on someone's actual or perceived 'sexual orientation' or 'gender preference.' The law would force Christian schools, organizations, Christian business owners, and more to hire and give preferential treatment to people involved in homosexual behavior and/or people changing between genders.
ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to tell your U.S. Representative in Washington D.C. to please vote 'NO' on ENDA!
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Senate to Consider 3 More Casinos
The Illinois State Senate is considering legislation that will expand gambling with three casinos -- one for Chicago and two more at locations to be determined later -- all in an effort to finance billions of dollars of road construction.
TAKE ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to contact Governor Blagojevich and your State Senator to ask them to vote AGAINST more gambling in Illinois.
Read more...
 | Listen to IFI's Family Update
on this issue by clicking HERE. |
IFI E-Alert: Two Dangerous Bills in Congress
Federal Issue
NOTE: WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO FORWARD THIS MESSAGE TO AS MANY FAMILY AND FRIENDS AS POSSIBLE!
With Labor Day weekend behind us now, we must shift right back into gear and call your attention to two dangerous pieces of legislation slated for major Congressional action.
Read more...
 | If you have any questions about your rights as a parent, please contact IFI's School Issues Advisor HERE. |
IFI E-Alert: Back to School: Parents Take Notice!
Parents, grandparents, and concerned taxpayers take notice! As your children start off a new school year, take time to get to know what's going on in your local public schools.
Your local public schools are supposed to be places where young minds are taught the basics -- reading, writing, and arithmetic. But, increasingly, they are becoming establishments where liberal social engineering agendas (designed to desensitize our children to the truths found in traditional values) are being implemented.
Today, more than ever, parents must take to heart their God-given job to guide their child's education and moral training!
Read more...
 | ACTION: Please CLICK HERE to contact your legislators and ask them to vote for 'NO' to more gambling and 'NO' to new or additional taxes. |
IFI E-Alert: Tell Springfield Lawmakers "No More Gambling" and "No New Taxes!"
Illinois state lawmakers have set a new overtime record for the longest budget delay in the history of the state of Illinois -- 66 days and counting. Governor Blagojevich continues to convene multiple "special sessions" in response to the continued budget impasse. Ironically, the taxpayer cost for special session is estimated at $42,000 per day.
Democratic and Republican leaders in the House and Senate continue to negotiate how to spend our tax money. The problem, however, is that their wish lists will cost more then they are currently collecting. This, despite the fact that Illinois has $900 million in natural tax-revenue growth with which to work. Therefore, some lawmakers are giving serious consideration to increasing our taxes and expanding gambling.
Read more...
 | For more information about this situation, please call IFI
at 630-790-8370.
|
IFI E-Alert: Gay Club at Hononegah High School
Consideration is being given to a Gay Straight Alliance Club at Hononegah H.S.
Are children told the truth in our society about the real ramifications of the homosexual lifestyle or are they being misinformed?
ACTION: Please attend the co-curricular meeting at Hononegah on Monday, July 23rd at 6 P.M. to voice your protest to this idea. They will send a recommendation to the school board depending on the outcome of this meeting. Be in prayer regarding this situation.
Read more...
 | Click HERE to enlarge the ad. |
IFI E-Alert Hate Crimes Bill Moves Forward in the Senate
Federal Issue
The "hate crimes" bill (S. 1105) is now before the US Senate! Under this bill, anyone convicted of "hate crimes" faces greater punishment than those who commit the same acts against non-homosexuals, e.g., children, elderly persons.
ACTION: CLICK HERE to contact Senators Durbin & Obama to ask them to please vote AGAINST this Hate Crimes bill, and in so doing, protect free speech and religious freedom.
Read more...
 | ACTION: CLICK HERE to contact Senators Durbin & Obama to ask them to please vote AGAINST this Hate Crimes bill, and in so doing, protect free speech and religious freedom. |
IFI E-Alert: Call Senators Durbin & Obama to Urge them to Oppose Hate Crimes Bill
Federal Issue
The U.S. Senate is expected to vote soon after the July 2-6 recess on a Hate Crimes bill that could chill citizens and churches from speaking their moral or religious beliefs on homosexuality.
ACTION: CLICK HERE to contact Senators Durbin & Obama to ask them to please vote AGAINST this Hate Crimes bill, and in so doing, protect free speech and religious freedom.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Contact Your U.S. Congressmen! Ask Them To Renew Abstinence Funding!
Federal Issue
Congress is considering cutting Title V funds for abstinence education, despite the fact that recent polls suggest that parents want their children to be taught abstinence.
ACTION: Click HERE to send an email or fax to your Congressman AND both U.S. Senators Durbin and Obama to ask them to keep funding Title V (Five) Abstinence education. Teaching teenagers that saving sex until marriage and remaining faithful to their spouse is the best choice for health and happiness.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Mega Gambling Expansion for Illinois?
This mega gambling expansion deal has been in the works for 15 years since promoters and politicians wanted a casino in Chicago. Millions of dollars of campaign contributions have been spent on politicians by gambling promoters to come to this place where they can force a massive expansion of gambling that is riding not on the wave of people voting or asking for more gambling, but on the millions of dollars of campaign contributions that have gone into both parties.
If you didn't have enough money to pay for your health care or education for your children, would you gamble to pay for it? Why are Legislators and the Governor willing to "roll the dice" on such important public policy issues.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Ask Your State Rep. to Vote 'NO' on SB 715
SB 715 would appropriate $5 million to create 20 new school health centers which can dispense birth control and condoms, and provide abortion referrals without parental notification or knowledge.
ACTION: Click HERE to contact your State Representative. Please him/her to please vote 'NO' on SB 715. There are currently 48 school-based clinics in Illinois, and the Illinois Administrative Code specifically allows schools to do "family planning" by "prescribing, dispensing, or referring for birth control."
Read more...
 | [Click to enlarge photo]
Click HERE to view IFI's Press Release. |
IFI E-Alert: Libraries to Deny Taxpayer Services -- Contact Your State Senator!
The Illinois Library Association is encouraging libraries across the state to engage in an illicit protest today to deny patrons taxpayer funded Internet service to wildly exaggerating the effects of HB 1727.
ACTION: Click HERE to contact your state representative and state senator to tell them that you strongly object to government employees using taxpayer time, facilities and resources to engage in a campaign of misinformation, all in an effort to keep providing Internet pornography.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Say 'NO' to Legalized Gambling in Neighborhood Bars
HB 1124 will expand gambling in every community statewide.
HB 1124 passed in the Senate Executive Committee yesterday and could be called for a vote in the Senate very soon.
ACTION: Contact your State Senator and ask him/her to please to vote 'NO' on HB 1124.
Contact your state senator now by clicking HERE, or you can
Call the Capitol switchboard at 217-782-2000.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: New Hate Crimes (Thought Crimes) Legislation in Washington D.C.
(Federal Issue)
Bill would create special protection for homosexuals.
The Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007 (H.R. 1592) will be called for a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives next week. This bill would extend existing federal hate-crimes laws that already cover crimes motivated by race, color, national origin and religion to include crimes based on "actual or perceived gender, sexual orientation, disability and gender identity (including gender-related characteristics)."
ACTION: Contact your Congressman today and urge him/her to oppose this anti-religious piece of legislation. Hate crimes legislation is really "thought crime" legislation because it penalizes politically-incorrect beliefs, attitudes, and thoughts, rather than actual crimes:
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: State Senate to Vote on SB 764 & SB 774 -- Feel Good Gambling
The government has no business promoting an industry which is dependant on the exploitation of its own citizenry. A successful gambling industry requires losers--lots of them.
ACTION: Please contact your State Senator today and ask them to vote against SB 764 and SB 774. The switchboard phone number in Springfield is 217-782-2000.
Click HERE to email your elected officials or call the IFI office at 630-790-8370.
Read more...
 | HB 1331
Can the state of Illinois really justify this additional expense? |
IFI E-Alert: Contact Your Rep. Today About HB 1331
The "Homosexual/Shack-up Teachers Bill"
Ominous legislation will equate shack-up couples and homosexual partners with married spouses.
HB 1331, sponsored by State Representative Julie Hamos (D-Evanston), amends the Illinois Pension Code, to allow a designated domestic partner to qualify as a surviving spouse for purposes of survivor and death benefits.
As amended, HB 1331 changes the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code as well as the Chicago Teacher Article. (Click HERE to see IFI's position paper on this bill.)
Read more...
 | Click HERE to view IFI's White Paper on HB 1727. |
IFI E-Alert: Ask Your State Rep. to Support the Internet Filtering Bill -- HB 1727
Your action on Internet filter legislation is needed today!
Your state representative needs to hear from you today! The bill will likely be debated on the House floor today or later this week. It is vital that your Representative knows your position on this critical bill.
ACTION: Contact your state representative and ask him/her to please vote 'YES' on HB 1727 to preserve safety in our public libraries!! This bill will require state libraries to install Internet filtering technology to block pornography! Call the Capitol switchboard at 217-782-2000.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Gay Groups to Lobby for Civil Unions
Call Your State Rep. Today!!
Equality Illinois and Illinois Log Cabin Republicans will be holding a lobby day tomorrow in support of the creation of Civil Unions -- HB 1826.
ACTION: Contact your state representative to preserve marriage in Illinois!! Call the Capitol switchboard at 217-782-2000 and ask your representative to please vote 'NO' on HB 1826 and, instead, pass a constitutional amendment to preserve marriage and its unique benefits for one man and one woman.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Protect Parental Rights: Tell Your State Rep. to Vote 'NO' on SB 543 -- Mandatory Kindergarten
Calls to General Assembly needed to protect parental rights in Illinois.
ACTION: Please call your state representative and ask them to please vote against SB 543.
This bill would extend the truancy laws to those who are in kindergarten by defining "dropout" as including any child enrolled in kindergarten (ages 5 and 6) whose parents have removed him from school because they do not believe he is ready to attend. SB 543 interferes with a parent's right to make educational choices in the best interest of their child.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Contact U.S. Senators Durbin & Obama About Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research!
In the next few days the U.S. Senate will vote on legislation that would squander more of your hard-earned tax dollars on unethical human embryonic stem cell research that has failed to produce viable treatments and cures. Join us in urging the Senate to vote "no" on expanding funds for research that requires the destruction of human life at any stage.
ACTION: Contact Senator Dick Durbin and Senator Barack Obama and ask them to vote NO on Senate Bill 5 and the funding of unethical embryonic stem cell research.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Boycott GLSEN's "Day of Silence"
It is that time of year again-- when minorities of activist students use our schools to promote homosexual lifestyles with the tacit or even direct approval of school administrators.
The Day of Silence is an annual event held to protest negative (perceived and real) thought and treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) students in our schools.
ACTION: Find out if your child's school is indeed participating in the Day of Silence, either actively or by sanctioning a "silent" student protest. Please report your findings to IFI by calling the office at 630-790-8370 or e-mailing us HERE.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Please customize your IFI email account!
Help us keep you better informed on the issues affecting your family!
We've recently moved to a new email service in an effort to serve you more effectively. The new emails should be as readable as ever -- with notable improvements in user-friendliness-- including the ability to send you contact information for your specific lawmakers.
ACTION: Please re-register your contact information by clicking HERE. Without this information, we will be unable to identify your specific legislators -- so please fill out this form today! We promise not to share this information with any one else.
Read more...
 | Download
IFI's Bulletin Insert HERE. |
IFI E-Alert: Springfield Bills of Interest to the Family
There have been over 5,500 bills introduced in Springfield this legislative session. Unfortunately, the vast majority of these bills, if passed, would negatively affect parental rights and family values.
ACTION: Download the attached bulletin insert and ask your pastor if it could be made available during services this week and next. Then please help by contacting your state legislators and urge them to support or oppose the bills we've identified. Please pass the bulletin insert along to your friends.
Read more...
 | Rep. Greg Harris
(D-Chicago)
See Rep. Harris' bio HERE. |
IFI E-Alert: Gay "Marriage" Bill Scrapped for "Civil Unions" Bill
Homosexual activists abandonded push for gay so-called "marriage" to focus on the less offensive name of "civil unions."
Illinois State Representative Greg Harris (D-Chicago), has introduced a a new bill (HB 1826) to legalize homosexual "civil unions" in our state.
ACTION: This bill will be heard in the House Human Services Committee.
Read more...
 | Click HERE
to download IFI's
White Paper on SB 715. |
IFI E-Alert: SB 715 -- Oppose Funding for More School Based Health Clinics
Urge your state senator to oppose SB 715 and the creation of 20 additional school based health clinics.
ACTION: Please call your State Representative today and ask him/her to vote against HB 715. Phone are the best way to communicate with your legislators. Calls are effective! Lawmakers keep track of how many calls they receive on given issues, and if they receive numerous calls about a bill, they will recognize that the bill is of concern to their constituents.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Ask Your Congressman to Vote Against Grassroots Restrictions
(federal Issues)
Back in January, we asked you to contact Senator Durbin and Senator Obama about a bill that would subject grassroots lobbying to undue government regulation. Despite the fact that both Durbin and Obama voted against the Amendment designed to strip the language from the final bill, the majority of senators-including 7 Democrats-voted to approve the Amendment.
But the fight is not over yet! The House of Representatives could vote on similar measures some time this month. If they are successful in adding provisions, it would go back to the Senate for another vote.
ACTION: Call Congress to let your representative know that you oppose legislation (S. 1 and H.R. 984) that would seriously impede the communications from pro-family organizations like Illinois Family Institute to communicate with you and your families on the issues that are so very important.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: Urge Springfield Lawmakers to Protect Children and Communities
3/11/2007 8:56:00 AM
By David E. Smith, Executive Director
Get Porn out of Public Libraries, Support HB 1727
State Representative Kevin C. Joyce (D-Chicago) has again introduced a bill that would require neighborhood public libraries to filter out sexually explicit websites on computer terminals.
ACTION: HB 1727 has been assigned to the House Judiciary 1 Committee, and is scheduled for a hearing on Wednesday, March 14th. Pray for its passage, and then please contact the members of this committee to ask them to support it.
Read more...
 | State Rep. John Fritchey
(D-Chicago)
Fritchey says that his bill is "reasonable common ground on the very contentious issue of parental notification."
Ironically, HB 317 has very little to do with the actual parents, but empowers siblings, step-siblings, aunts, uncles, clergy, nurses, doctors, social workers, and psychologists to approve abortions on minors. |
IFI E-Alert: Rep. Fritchey's 'Parental Rights Circumvention Act' Not Needed
2/26/2007 10:02:00 AM By David E. Smith, IFI Executive Director
New bill would allow certain "responsible parties" to circumvent God-given parental authority.
ACTION: Please contact your state representative and ask him/her to vote against HB 317. The switchboard phone number in Springfield is 217-782-2000.
MORE ACTION: Please also tell your legislators to vote against HB138, the Embryonic Stem Cell and Cloning Bill.
Click HERE to look up your elected officials or call the IFI office at 630-790-8370.
Background
Illinois Family Institute is very concerned about HB 317, which would all but eliminate a parents' right to be notified if their minor child seeks to have an abortion. This legislation is a blatant attempt to stop the Parental Notification Act of 1995 from going into effect.
The bill is sponsored by State Rep. John Fritchey (D-Chicago).
There's no compelling state interest to modify the existing law; this bill simply serves the interests of the radical abortion industry in Illinois-- not girls or the parents who love them. This new, so-called parental notification bill is a slap in the face to concerned parents everywhere.
Read more...
 | Rep. Greg Harris
(D-Chicago) |
IFI E-Alert: Homosexual So-Called "Marriage" Bill Introduced in Springfield
2/23/2007 9:14:00 AM By David E. Smith, IFI Executive Director
Illinois State Representative Greg Harris (D-Chicago), has introduced a bill is Springfield (HB 1615) to legalize homosexual so-called "marriage" in our state.
ACTION: Please call your state representative NOW and urge him or her to VOTE NO on HB 1615. Springfield needs to hear from you right away. The switchboard phone number in Springfield is 217-782-2000.
Read more...
 | CLICK HERE
to read the facts about
this proposed legislation. |
IFI E-Alert: Mandatory Action for HPV Vaccine
Illinois lawmakers push to have school girls receive the Gardasil vaccine for the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted disease that can cause cervical cancer.
ACTION: Please call your State Representative today and ask him/her to vote against HB 4115. Then please call your State Senator and ask him/her to vote against SB 10. The switchboard phone number in Springfield is 217-782-2000.
Read more...
IFI E-Alert: (Human) Embryos Need Your Voice
(Federal Issue)
2/19/2007 6:56:00 AM
By David E. Smith, IFI Executive Director
Even as the Washington Post reports that in Texas, "designer embryos" are being made available for sale, in the next several weeks, the U.S. Senate is expected to vote on a bill that would use federal funds to promote the destruction of human embryos for stem cell research.
Read more...
|
|
|
| |
|
