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DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE OF THE 7TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT |
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Greetings!
Welcome to this week's Ford Report
As summer continues, our campaign is staying active across Illinois' 7th Congressional District by meeting with workers, supporting community events, sharing resources for students and families, and continuing conversations about the issues shaping our future.
In this edition, I'm honored to share a new campaign endorsement, highlight several upcoming events across the district, introduce new back-to-school resources for students and parents, provide an update on developments in Washington, and reflect on a recent visit with one of our local manufacturers.
Thank you for taking a few minutes to stay informed. I hope to see many of you in our neighborhoods and communities in the days ahead.
La Shawn K. Ford
Democratic Nominee for Congress
Illinois’ 7th Congressional District
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I am honored to receive the endorsement of AFSCME PEOPLE.
Every day, AFSCME members keep our communities running. They serve our families, care for our seniors, protect public health, maintain our neighborhoods, and provide the essential public services that Illinois depends on.
I am grateful for their trust and support. Together, we will continue fighting for good jobs, fair wages, safe workplaces, strong public services, and an economy that works for working families.
Thank you, AFSCME PEOPLE. I'm proud to stand with you.
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Summer Soirée Fundraiser with La Shawn K. Ford
Join us for an evening in support of Democratic Nominee La Shawn K. Ford for Congress in Illinois’ 7th Congressional District.
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March with us at the Bud Billiken Parade!
Join Democratic nominee La Shawn K. Ford for Congress and Congressman Danny K. Davis on Saturday, August 8, as Team Ford takes part in one of Chicago's most celebrated traditions.
Volunteers will meet at 8:00 AM for line-up. The exact meeting location will be sent to all registered participants by email and text on Thursday, August 6.
After the parade, stay with us for a campaign rally and community BBQ as we continue building the movement across Illinois' 7th Congressional District.
Register today by scanning the QR code or using the registration link. We hope you'll march with us!
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Looking for something fun to do with the family this summer?
Join Bellwood Mayor Andre Harvey and the Village of Bellwood for the annual Taste of Bellwood, August 7–9.
Great food, live entertainment, carnival rides, local vendors, fireworks, and fun for the whole family.
I hope to see many of our neighbors there!
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Three great community events. One great day at Union Park.
If you're looking for something to do with family and friends on Saturday, August 8, consider stopping by Union Park for a full day of community activities hosted by Alderperson Walter Burnett Jr. and the 27th Ward.
From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, families can enjoy the 30th Annual Back to School Picnic, young athletes can participate in the Back to School Basketball Camp, and job seekers can connect with employers at the College & Career Fair.
Basketball Camp
College & Career Fair
A special thank you to Alderperson Alderman Walter Red Burnett and the many community organizations, sponsors, volunteers, and partners whose continued commitment makes these annual events possible.
Whether you're preparing for the new school year, looking for career opportunities, or simply spending time with family, there's something for everyone.
We hope you have a great time and enjoy another wonderful day in our community.
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If you're looking for something to do with the family before the summer ends, stop by the End of the Summer Celebration on Thursday, August 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Douglass Park.
Thank you to Alderwoman Monique L. Scott, for putting this event together and making it free for families to enjoy.
I hope you can make it. Have a great time, enjoy the day, and support another wonderful community event.
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47th Annual Back-to-School Picnic & Parade on Saturday, August 15.
For nearly five decades, this event has brought our community together to support our students and families as they prepare for a new school year.
Want to be part of the parade? Marching units, community organizations, vendors, vehicles, dancers, teams and more are invited to participate. Download and complete the Parade Entry Form to register
Come out for the parade, school supplies, book bags, health information, food and a day with our neighbors.
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Parade: 10:00 AM
Kickoff: Bloomingdale & Central
Let’s get ready for a great school year together.
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Student & Family Resource Center
Back-to-school and family resources for residents of Illinois' 7th Congressional District. Find trusted information for schools, after-school programs, food assistance, transportation, health care, college planning, and family support throughout Chicago and the western suburbs.
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Back to School Chapter 1: The First Day of School
Every great school year begins with one simple decision: show up.
The first day of school is your chance to meet new teachers, make new friends, and start building habits that can shape your future. One of the best goals you can set is perfect attendance, because every day in the classroom is another opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
Join Maya and Jordan as they kick off a brand-new school year and discover why showing up on Day One matters.
Looking for school resources?
Visit our Student & Family Resource Directory
Let's get ready for a great 2026-2027 school year!
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The road to November is taking shape, and Michigan voters have shown that outside spending alone does not determine an election.
Abdul El-Sayed’s victory in the Democratic Senate primary raises important questions about campaign money, voter priorities, and the direction of the Democratic Party. He now enters a general election that will help determine whether Democrats can improve their position in a Senate currently controlled by Republicans, 53–47.
The stakes extend well beyond Michigan. Democrats are fighting to regain control of the House, defend competitive seats, and elect a Congress capable of holding the Trump administration accountable.
Today’s Washington Watch also covers Senate action on CDC leadership, Social Security’s future, protections for children online, and House races that could help decide control of Congress.
November will determine who holds power in Washington and whether Democrats can turn opposition into governing strength.
Let's all come out to vote this November!
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During my recent visit to Dudek & Bock, a leading manufacturer celebrating its 80th anniversary, I saw firsthand the essential role American manufacturing continues to play in creating stable, middle-class jobs.
Owners Ed and John Sieracki shared how the skilled work performed by their dedicated employees demonstrates the lasting value of human expertise, precision, and craftsmanship in today's economy.
This visit reaffirmed the importance of supporting businesses in industries where skilled workers remain at the center of innovation and production. By investing in manufacturing, workforce development, and infrastructure, we can help strengthen job opportunities and economic growth throughout Illinois' 7th Congressional District and across the country.
To learn more about Dudek & Bock and their work, please visit their website.
| | Paid for by La Shawn K. Ford for Congress | | | | |
