CHICAGO—The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus hosted a day of action on the West Side of Chicago to help rebuild communities. While many peacefully protested to end injustice and systemic racism after racial acts of violence, including George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor, others took advantage of the moment by damaging many businesses and properties.

Together the Black Caucus, governor and lieutenant governor came together at the event to discuss how to move forward both in terms of rebuilding communities and providing equitable resources for black communities going forward.

CHICAGO – In the wake of nights of protest over police misconduct that have resulted in damage to businesses all across the country, State Senator Jacqueline Collins called on the South Side of Chicago to commit to healing, and on major employers to continue investing in the communities hardest hit by the unrest.

“In the wake of violence against property, much of it owned by Black Chicagoans, I am reaching out to every resource available to try to aid small business owners as they work to recover, and I’m trying to be an ambassador for the 16th Senate District as we work with major employers in the area to show that this part of the city should remain an investment,” Collins said. “That is part of the work needed in this moment. The other part, the part we must all do together, is to fight against the violence against human life that gave rise to these protests. Unarmed Black people have been killed by police who have faced no accountability. During peaceful protests all across the nation, video evidence clearly shows escalation and unprovoked violence on the part of police.

Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus were saddened to learn of the passing of former colleague Larry Walsh, who died after several years with prostate cancer. He passed away Wednesday night at age 72.

Walsh served as an Illinois state senator representing the 43rd District from April 1997 until January 2005, when he then became Will County executive. He spent nearly 50 years in public service at the local, county and state levels.

DOLTON – In response to the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) released the following statement:

“May 25, 2020 will forever be a day ingrained in the hearts and minds of millions of Americans. From Central Park to Minneapolis, multimedia and social networks confirmed to the world the fears and omnipresent terror that have been steadfast companions to Black America’s 150-year journey through ‘Freedom in America.’

“My grandfather, Bishop Napoleon Bill Harris Sr. served this country in the United States Air Force and was told he was expendable. However, while home from duty he was subjected to racial discrimination. He took action. He decided to take a stand and join the fight for civil and human rights. He was a part of the civil rights movement and was destined to create better conditions for his children, grandchildren, and future generations. I’ve learned from my grandfather that when injustice happens, action is required. As a young black man, father, husband, son, and legislator, I feel the pain and hurt of this generation and the African American community.

“The young people of America have mobilized in unified outrage and it is time we acknowledged their cries. It is time we acknowledged the humanity and grievances of African-Americans throughout this country. We must not dishonor the tragic murder of George Floyd with empty rhetoric, inaction and mendacious critique of the outraged. Whether it be Jim Crow, disenfranchisement, disinvestment, miseducation, red-lining, mass-incarceration or the infamous ‘War on Drugs,’ institutional racism has systematically infected every aspect of our society. 

“In order to cure this infection, leaders must provide real hope and opportunity to the marginalized. As citizens we must vote. And even more, we must hold our leaders and elected officials accountable. It is time we accept nothing short of tangible change. Policy or legislation will not root out the evil of racism. But it is a start and a charge I intend to lead. I sincerely look forward to working with you as we craft our plan. Prayers to the family of George Floyd and all the victims and families that have been affected by racial discrimination. We are with you both in thought and prayer and you will not be forgotten.”