Greetings!

This weekend is Independence Day, a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence and America's freedom. With COVID-19, there are extra steps you must take while celebrating:

  • Gatherings should be small, family-oriented and outdoors
  • Wear a mask when social distancing is not possible
  • Set up chairs and tables to accommodate for social distancing
  • Fireworks are illegal in Chicago & can affect everyone's health in a negative way, especially former combat veterans. The Mayor outlined some steps that the City is taking for the 4th of July. Air travelers from certain states with increasing rates or spikes in COVID will need to quarantine. Emergency preparedness information and tips are available on OEMC’s website: www.cityofchicago.org/oemc. Sign up for free emergency alerts at www.NotifyChicago.org.
  • The Independence Day celebration at the Chicago History Museum will include a virtual event featuring Mayor Lightfoot, Ebo Patel, Jamal Cole, Laura Washington, and other events. Join the Chicago History Museum and Chicago civic leaders for their reflections on this history and its undeniable impact on the current social climate and the continued struggles for equality and inclusion. This virtual event is organized into two sections: “We the People: Chicago Responds” and “Fwd: Arts in Action.” Watch the livestream here.
  • Let us not forget that while we're celebrating America's freedom, Juneteenth is still not a federal holiday and should be; read more here.

Please also note that City of Chicago offices will be closed on July 3rd and garbage/recycling pickup will begin again on Monday.

So far, 15,372 households in the 32nd Ward have responded to the 2020 Census . It takes about 5 minutes to complete the form. The census helps determine federal funding for states and municipalities, and is a big part of the ward redistricting process. Take the census at https://2020census.gov!

Have a good weekend,

Scott Waguespack, Alderman