Plus, choosing a new leader for COPA
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City Bureau
Many residents say that resources to find housing and work are not accessible in their communities as they transition into adulthood.
Community members are determined to find housing and employment in their area, but the rapidly gentrifying neighborhood and ongoing economic instability make it difficult to navigate.
It’s a myth that young people don’t care about politics or social issues. In Chicago, organizers are building relationships among Black youth and young adults so they feel empowered to participate in their communities and vote.
CPS teacher resignations and retirements spiked in the early part of the pandemic, and schools throughout the district are struggling with teacher shortages. Advocates say there should be more focus on teachers’ mental health, as well as that of their students.
Plus, more CTA buses on a street near you
Plus, gentrification in East Garfield Park
More than 55,000 Chicagoans over 18 are experiencing homelessness, and it’s difficult to prioritize voting alongside immediate needs. But advocates say it’s important to mobilize, especially with a presidential administration targeting government spending.
Thousands of Illinoisans could not vote in November, as the state bans people from voting while serving time for felony sentences. This exclusion from the civic process highlights how incarceration and reintegration challenges can prevent someone participating in democracy.
Plus, police districts strategic plans
Mental health challenges among U.S. college students peaked early in the pandemic. More students are reaching out for help, but many are unable to get proper treatment – so they are left to cope and find support on their own.
Plus, Police Board sees fewer cases
One big issue was largely missing from the election season: Covid-19 and Long Covid. Chicago organizers and disability advocates are still fighting for locals to take the issue seriously. They are urging residents to demand that public officials reinstate citywide Covid mandates, such as mandatory masking and testing.
Plus, representation for low-income housing fund
The city needs more spaces for young people to connect and support each other. The best ones are spearheaded by the young people they’re meant to serve, organizers say.
Auburn Gresham residents are leaning on block clubs, community gardens and more as they fight for better mental health resources and social services.
Plus, closing the racial gap for Chicago homeowners
Chicagoans in under-resourced neighborhoods say barriers to accessing mental health services affect youths, adults — and whole communities.
Plus, demands for a police district council member to resign
Raymond Thompson, a South Side organizers, believes better mental health will come from having open, self-aware and mindful communication between generations.