EAST ST. LOUIS – As people of color continue to face barriers when trying to enter the Illinois workforce, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) says businesses must be encouraged to recognize the benefits of a diverse staff.

“Companies need to understand the value of recruiting and retaining diverse employees, as these workers play a vital role in a company’s ability to adapt, grow and sustain a competitive advantage,” Belt said. “We must continue to encourage businesses to recognize the benefits of a diverse workforce and promote equity for all racial backgrounds.”

On Tuesday, the Senate Executive, Commerce and Economic Development, Transportation, and State Government Committees held a joint hearing to discuss diversity in procurement, Business Enterprise Programs, Disadvantaged Business Enterprise policies, and labor unions. The following issues were some of the biggest focal points:

• Increasing participation in trade unions, getting card carrying members into jobs, getting people out of the apprenticeship’s programs and into jobs, identifying community-based organizations that can serve as pre-apprenticeship practitioners
• Increasing pre-apprenticeship programs that are tied directly to unions
• Identifying barriers for potential applicants

Tuesday’s hearing was part of a series of discussions prompted by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus on eliminating systemic racism in the state. There was another hearing on Tuesday, and the next hearing will take place on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 1 p.m. covering age equity, workers’ rights, and consumer protection. 

To view virtual committee proceedings, visit https://ilga.gov/senateaudvid.asp and click "Watch Live Virtual Committee Video." The link will become available when proceedings begin.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS - In recognition of National Apprenticeship Week this week, State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) is celebrating and encouraging those interested to find out more about how to secure an apprenticeship.

“Apprenticeships are crucial in the development of new and young professionals,” Gillespie said. “They provide individuals with work place experiences, which then prepares them to become a productive member of the work force.”

CHICAGO – This week marks the sixth annual National Apprenticeship Week, and State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) is encouraging Chicagoans to participate in local apprenticeships.

“For years, this week has always been a time for workers to promote growth in business and employment,” Van Pelt said. “This year, as millions struggle with unemployment, I encourage people to use this time to explore training options and learn a new skill.”

OAKBROOK TERRACE – To acknowledge the community contributions provided by labor workers, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, Nov. 8-14.

“Apprenticeships give trade students a head start on fulfilling, successful careers in the labor industry by providing quality experience and opportunities,” Glowiak Hilton said. “Working families are the foundation of our community, supporting our safety, prosperity and economic development, and I commend their daily contributions, especially during National Apprenticeship Week.”

CHICAGO—This week’s criminal justice reform hearing prompted by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus will focus on police reform in terms of decertification and licensure.

Senate Criminal Law Chair State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) and Senate Public Safety Special Committee Chair State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) will co-chair the joint hearing. State Representative Justin Slaughter (D-Chicago) of the House Judiciary-Criminal Law Committee and other members of the committees will participate as guests.

CHICAGO – Following the Senate Public Health and Health and Human Services final hearing on the Legislative Black Caucus’ four pillar agenda, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) says she is ready to continue reforming the state’s health care system.

“Our health care system is deeply flawed, but over the last few weeks, we’ve heard many recommendations on where to start reforming it,” Hunter said. “We must all be more informed about health literacy and examine the social determinants of health so that everyone has equal access to nourishment and well-being.”

EAST ST. LOUIS — As diversity and inclusion continues to be an issue for people of color, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) and other Illinois legislators will discuss diversity in procurement, Business Enterprise Programs and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise policies, and Labor Unions. 

“Companies need to understand the value of recruiting and retaining diverse employees, as these workers play a vital role in a company’s ability to adapt, grow and sustain a competitive advantage,” Belt said. “We must continue to encourage businesses to recognize the benefits of a diverse workforce and promote equity for all racial backgrounds.”

KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) announced the Illinois Department of Public Health will operate a temporary COVID-19 testing site now through Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day at the Kankakee County Health Department, located at 2390 W. Station Street in Kankakee.

“A critical part of overcoming this virus is getting tested,” Joyce said. “This site will allow us to ramp up our testing capacity in Kankakee County and help reduce the spread in our community. I urge folks to get tested.”