U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, on Nov. 28, visited both a LifeSource blood bank in suburban Norridge, as well as the organization's regional headquarters in Rosemont, to help assess the state of the blood-donation process.
Quigley, who is vice-chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, has long maintained an interest in the blood donation system, and he has called for the repeal of the FDA's restrictions on donations from gay men. Those restrictions were eased somewhat—blood banks now allow donations from men provided they have not had sex with another man in the past year, but many argue that such a restriction is still onerous and unnecessary.
"It is important to understand the nuances of these systems," Quigley said during the visit to LifeSource headquarters. "That is what I—and colleagues—try to do in visits like this."
LifeSource was able to implement the change to the the FDA rule this past summer. Regional Executive Director Eva Quinley did not have any exact figures on the number of gay men who've been able to donate since then, but said the number was likely to be quite low. She added that the company is always looking for new donations, and that they are more urgently needed in times of calm and not in times of crisis, such as after 9/11 or the Pulse shooting, when people are more likely to think about donating.
"It is imperative that we prioritize the highest level of blood product safety while also promoting a fair and equitable blood donor policy for all donors wanting to help save lives," said Quigley in a statement following the tour. "I thank LifeSource for today's tour and the opportunity to learn more about the transfusion medicine practices and procedures used to connect Chicagoans with quality healthcare."
On Nov. 30, Quigley also spoke out against hate speech on the Congressional floor where he denounced President Elect Donald Trump's appointment of Steve Bannon to an advisory role. Quigley noted that his office has received more than 600 letters from concerned constituents since the appointment.
"With reports of bias-based attacks continuing to rise following the election, we must remain focused on ensuring that no American—regardless of race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation—feels marginalized or afraid in his or her own community," Quigley said. "We must remember that there will always be more that unites us than divides us. It is up to us to stop hatred wherever we see it, especially in our halls of government."
