Addressing Recent Federal Actions and Their Impact on IL
Dear Neighbor,
January was a painful month. The escalation of federal forces in Minneapolis and the killings of peaceful protesters were horrific, and I know many of us are fearful about the possibility of ICE returning to our city as we’re still recovering from the havoc of Operation Midway Blitz.
Last week in Springfield, I spoke in support of House Resolution 622, condemning the excessive and deadly force deployed by federal agents. When people in unmarked cars with no license plates grab our neighbors off the street, they aren't keeping us safe — they are creating chaos and terror, causing trauma, and costing lives. The killings of Silverio Villegas González, Renee Good, and Alex Pretti at the hands of ICE and Border Patrol officers are beyond tragic and unjust.
In Illinois, we stay committed to fighting alongside our immigrant communities against the indiscriminate application of state violence and in demanding an immediate end to ICE deployments, not just in Chicago and Minneapolis but in every city in this country.
Watch my full remarks below.
A reminder, that if you see ICE activity, or if someone is detained, please call the ICIRR Family Support Network Hotline at 1-855-435-7693 to report it and for further support. You can also access free and low-cost immigration legal services here. And be sure to follow the Northwest Side Rapid Response Team and the Far Northwest Side Rapid Response Team for verified sightings in our area.
All my best,
Will
Restore, Reinvest, Review Program
Applications are open for the Restore, Reinvest, Review Program, or R3 Program. R3 grants fund programs around civil legal aid, economic development, reentry, violence prevention, and youth development in Illinois communities that have been harmed by violence, excessive incarceration, and economic disinvestment.
Nonprofit organizations, local governments, faith-based organizations, businesses, and other community or neighborhood associations may apply for grants individually or in a collaborative with other groups. Find out more information here: r3.illinois.gov.
Funding Fundamentals for Small Businesses
Center for Changing Lives is hosting a Funding Fundamentals for Small Businesses, a free 8-week hybrid cohort to explore financing options, create loan application sections, and learn strategies for sustainable financial growth in weekly 2-hour sessions. Register by March 10 by scanning the QR code on the flyer or by reaching out directly to CCL at frontdesk@cclconnect.org.
Valentine’s Day Senior Bingo
Alderwoman Ruth Cruz is hosting a Valentine's Senior Bingo Event on Saturday, February 7, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Disney II School, 3815 N. Kedvale. Join us for an afternoon of prizes, refreshments, and fun to celebrate with our senior neighbors.