Last week, I sent a letter to President Donald Trump requesting a federal task force made up of officials from every level of government to coordinate efforts to quell the violence that continues to rock Chicago.
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On Monday, I was at the Chicago Urban League to discuss the incredibly high unemployment numbers for African American youth and how it ties to violence.
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In January, 66 people were killed by gun violence in Cook County. Fifty six of those were within the city of Chicago. And more than 80 percent were African American.
The numbers are appalling, but they are nothing new. African Americans continue to make up the majority of those shot and killed in Chicago. That is why we must think outside the box.
On Wednesday, the Board will debate a Resolution I introduced with several of my colleagues calling on President Trump and the federal government to bring resources to Chicago's endangered communities. Economic investment and additional law enforcement can serve as an immediate solution to the problem, but long-term initiatives are equally important.
Also on Wednesday, the Neighborhood Revitalization Act, which is a long-term initiative, will be referred to committee. While the legislation is in committee, I will continue to host town halls in the communities that this initiative focuses on while I work with my colleagues to ensure it will pass this spring so work can begin.
The
Forest Preserves Board meets on Tuesday at 11 am, and the
Board of Commissioners meets on Wednesday at 11 am . Both are open to the public and will be in the board room at 118 N. Clark on the fifth floor.