Hyde Park Citizen 6-28-2023

FITCH AFFIRMS TOP AAA RATING TO ILLINOIS FUNDS

$15 Billion Local Government Investment

Pool Complements Local Banking Relationships

Recent Daily Rates Exceed 5.1 Percent SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Funds, a mutual fund investment used by local governments through the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office, has earned the top AAA rating from Fitch Ratings, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said.

The Illinois Funds rating reaffirms the confidence Fitch showed in the program during the last year. The Illinois Funds provides more than 1,500 units of local government a safe investment vehicle with competitive rates that are designed to complement, not compete with, local banking relationships.

“This is an example of an outside firm pointing out that we’re doing things right,” Frerichs said. “The Illinois Funds is one of the many ways we invest in the people of Illinois.”

Established in 1975, more than 1,500 units of government such as cities, counties, libraries and school districts have invested in The Illinois Funds because it is a safe, liquid and competitive investment.

The $15 billion local government investment pool (LGIP) invests in assets focused on safety, preservation of principal, liquidity and income. The investment can be as short as overnight. The weighted average maturity is less than 60 days. No minimum investment is required.

U.S Bank is the pool’s primary service provider and custodian. The fund officially is named the Illinois Public Treasurers’ Investment Pool (IPTIP).

BLACK BENCH CHICAGO ANNOUNCES APPLICATIONS FOR 2023 CLASS

CHICAGO, Ill. -- The civic leadership program Black Bench Chicago (The Bench) has announced that applications are open for its second fellowship class. Having held its inaugural class in 2021, The Bench is a 6-month civic leadership training program geared toward uplifting and empowering the next generation of Black Chicagoans who seek to become changemakers.

“The Black Bench strives to assist the next generation of Black Chicagoans to become leaders in our community whether that means becoming a public servant or a housing organizer. The Bench will play a major role in training the next generation of Black leaders that will champion civic engagement throughout Chicago,” said Alex Sims-Jones, Founder.

The Bench recently announced new advisory board co-chairs to shepherd the program’s reach and impact: Cleveland Avenue Managing Partner Andy Zopp and Grow Greater Englewood Executive Director Anton Seals. The Bench’s insightful and professionally diverse advisory board consists of leaders in disciplines across the spectrum from entrepreneurship to community organizing. Advisory board members include Mike Strautmantis, Kurt Summers, Erica Bland, Melody Spann-Cooper, and Charles Smith. Please click here to view the full list of advisory board members.

The inaugural cohort produced several successful participants, including Alderman Ronnie Mosley who ran for alderman in the 42nd ward and won this past election cycle. Crystal Bland, Community Planning and Development Representative for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and Sean Anderson, Senior Director at Bully Pulpit Interactive were also a part of the inaugural cohort class and will be joining Black Bench to serve as program directors. Applications for the second cohort class of The Black Bench will close July 16. The program will focus on the following themes: Black History & Philosophy, Government & Levers, and Campaigns & Operations. Applicants will begin to be notified of their final application status Aug. 14. The first class for accepted participants will be held Saturday, Aug. 26, with the program concluding in February during Black History Month.

Project OneTen is seeking mentors

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BY TIA CAROL JONES

Dirrick Butler, Project Ten’s founder, said the organization is looking for young professionals interested in answering the call to what we see is happening in the city everyday.

“Oftentimes, people are complaining about the young people and violence. But, we’re looking for folks who are really about making a change, and supporting young people in one of the most critical transitions of their high school journey, transitioning to ninth grade, Butler said, adding those interested should be social justice oriented and recognize and understand the challenges young Black and Brown boys face in the city.

Butler also wants those interested in mentoring with Project OneTen to be optimistic and inspired by young people, with open minds and are adaptable and accountable. Project OneTen is looking for 40 mentors. It is scaling its program this year. Butler said it is really important for the mentors to be a part of the young boys’ lives.

“We think about 13-, 14- and 15-year-olds, as they’re making this transition to high school, that’s a big transitional year. Not just externally, with high school, but also internally. There’s so much our students are grappling with at that age,” he said.

Butler founded Project OneTen in 2018, based on his experiences as a teacher, discovering that there was a big gap between eighth grade and ninth grade when it came to his students. With Project OneTen, Butler created a framework for students, pairing them with a mentor and an academic coach the summer of their freshman year.

Butler said the mentors are like a third person, not a teacher, not a parent.

“They’re like that third person, that can really walk alongside students and help them think through making good decisions, supporting them with time management, talking them through their goals and expectations in life and how they can begin preparing for those now,” he said.

Since Project OneTen began in 2018, it has served more than 200 students. There is a 100% graduation rate. This year, Project OneTen had its first program cohort graduate from high school. Butler attended the graduation of one of the students who was the Valedictorian of his high school class. Butler said it is a great feeling to see the vision happen with the students graduating and going to college.

“We started this program because we saw that Black and Brown boys, unfortunately, were not given the same resources to take advantage of the choices available to them after high school. So, to see that our program was able to swoop in and support these young boys and help them realize their dreams, I think it’s a really really great feeling,” he said.

While the program is there to support the students involved in the program, Butler said the students already have the genius and brilliance within them. Project OneTen is just providing a space for the students to tap into that brilliance and genius. Also, to help them further develop it.

At Project OneTen’s recent 5th Annual Summer Soiree, the organization honored Adrienne Scherenzel-Curry, Vice President of Community Engagement, Chicago Bulls, and Executive Director of Chicago Bulls Charities and former State Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas, First Deputy Chief of Staff for Mayor Brandon Johnson. The event was an opportunity to celebrate the work the organization does, as well as to fundraise.

Scherenzel-Curry has been a key figure in Project OneTen’s ability to receive grant funding. The Chicago Bulls organization was the first to provide Project OneTen with its very first grant. Pacione-Zayas has been an advocate and cheerleader for young people in Chicago. Butler said she served as a great inspiration to him as he founded the organization.

Project OneTen’s recruitment for students also is ongoing. The application will be open until July. It is available at www. projectoneten.org/apply. For more information about becoming a mentor, visit www.projectoneten.org/mentor.

CITY OF CHICAGO LAUNCHES CASH ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE SURVIVORS

CHICAGO — The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) announced the official launch of the Emergency Financial Assistance (EFA) for Gender-based Violence and Human Trafficking (GBV/HT) Survivors, a new $5M fund to provide cash assistance to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking, with an additional $1M in funding from the 2023 budget. The program will provide one-time, $1000 payments in support of the economic stability of survivors. The application will be open until June 30. Approved applications in this period will receive assistance in the order in which they applied, following the successful processing of the application itself.

The Emergency Financial Assistance Program is intended to reach over 5,000 survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and/or human trafficking who live in Chicago and have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of the program is to support survivors’ economic stability by providing emergency financial assistance to cover expenses such as, but not limited to, childcare, transportation, medical expenses, education, or housing costs. Unrestricted funds allow survivors to spend money where they need to, as survivors know best what they need to stay safe. The program is being administered by The

Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence.

“We must do what we can as a city to break down barriers that prevent survivors from accessing the resources they need to personally rebuild and revive,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “The Emergency Financial Assistance program is a vital step forward in this recovery because by supporting survivors and putting them on a better path to economic stability, we can help them heal from pain and trauma, and uplift and empower them to carry on living healthy lives.”

“DFSS’s Division on Gender-Based Violence leads an expanding strategy to support GBV survivors, and our experience teaches us that cash is a vital lifeline for individuals in crisis,” said DFSS Commissioner Brandie Knazze. “The resources from this fund will provide the flexibility that survivors need to determine how to seek safety, access transportation, or obtain healthcare and housing.”

To meet eligibility requirements, an individual must be at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), for example $74,580 per year for a family of three, as dictated by the Treasury Department. Survivors who live in or are fleeing violence from communities hard-hit by COVID-19 will be prioritized. In its commitment to trauma-informed practices, survivors

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Project OneTen was founded by Dirrick Butler to help Black and Brown boys with their transition into high school. PHOTO PROVIDED BY PROJECT ONETEN.

MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON ANNOUNCES CITY OF CHICAGO TO RECEIVE $6.8 MILLION FROM MELLON FOUNDATION TO FUND CREATION OF 8 NEW CHICAGO MONUMENTS

CHICAGO – Mayor Brandon Johnson announced that the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) is set to receive a grant of $6.8 million from the Mellon Foundation to support the Chicago Monuments Project (CMP) and citywide community-generated commemorative initiatives and installations. The funding, the Mellon Foundation’s largest grant to date, will allow for the implementation of eight new Chicago monuments, including the Chicago Torture Justice Memorial, all of which were conceived and developed from the community engagement work of the Chicago Monuments Project.

“Chicago’s monuments and memorials are more than just public art — they speak directly to the values, history, and vision of our great city,” said Mayor Johnson. “I’m grateful for

the Mellon Foundation’s support of the Chicago Monuments Project and the creation of cultural works around labor, civil rights, racial justice and other areas that represent our diversity, honor our history and tell our story.”

These eight projects will add—permanently and temporarily—to the City of Chicago’s collection and memorialize events, people, and groups that historically have been excluded or underrepresented. Additional funding from Mellon will also support ongoing programs that facilitate the continued engagement of artists and communities around monuments, public art, and cultural history.

“This catalytic support from the Mellon Foundation will fundamentally strengthen our City as our public art collection becomes more honest about our history and far more inclusive regarding who is represented and what stories are told. We are thrilled to celebrate and support our incredible grantees, many of whom have been hard at work for years to see these artistic visions come to life,” shared DCASE Commissioner Erin Harkey. “Mellon’s funding will enable the City to continue engaging thoughtfully and creatively with the complex, ever-evolving issues related to justice, public space and our shared history.”

The Chicago Monuments Project (CMP) was created as a response to the City of Chicago’s need for a larger reckoning with monuments that symbolize outdated values and do not tell the story—or the full story—of Chicago’s history. A collaboration between DCASE, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), and the Chicago Park District (CPD), CMP’s work began in 2020 and was guided by an advisory committee of community leaders, artists, architects, scholars, curators, and City officials.

The Chicago Monuments Project Advisory Committee released its final

CITY OF CHICAGO...

Serves

will not be asked for evidence of survivorship, but will be asked to self-attest, or instead provide a connection to an advocate or service provider.

“The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence is proud to partner with the City of Chicago to strengthen the safety net for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and/or stalking in Chicago,” said The Network’s Executive Director, Amanda Pyron.

“We thank Mayor Johnson for continuing this essential program and dedicating the critical funding to ensure survivors of gender-based violence can afford safety.”

After the initial pilot phase in which over 1,000 applications were accepted, the first payments were made to 733 survivors

report in August 2022, synthesized from a comprehensive, community-focused engagement process—the first of its kind in a major U.S. city. Thousands of Chicagoans from diverse communities contributed to the conversation on the city’s public monuments through several modes including surveys, live discussions, and free-response public feedback submitted via ChicagoMonuments.org.

The Mellon Foundation grant will help support the implementation of the eight priority projects that were identified through the CMP new work engagement process:

Chicago Torture Justice Memorial, artist Patricia Nguyen and architectural designer John Lee

George Washington Monument Intervention, a new public art project by renowned Chicago artist Amanda Williams

A Long Walk Home (ALWH), “#SayHerName: The Rekia Boyd Monument Project”

Mother Jones, in partnership with the Mother Jones Heritage Project (MJHP), a commission to honor Mother Jones’s important contributions to labor history

Mahalia Jackson monument by artist Gerald Griffin, spearheaded by the Greater Chatham Initiative (GCI)

Pilsen Latina Histories, lead artist Diana Solis, scholars from the University of Illinois, Pilsen Arts & Community House staff, and additional artists and community groups in Pilsen

Chicago Race Riots of 1919 Commemoration Project, designed and produced in partnership with youth artists at Firebird Community Arts’ Project FIRE DuSable, a series of monuments that explore the settling of Chicago, including projects which amplify historic and notable Native Americans

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at the beginning of May. Of the survivors who were funded in the first phase, 35% identified as Latinx/Hispanic, and 47% identified as Black/African-American. More than 42% of the survivors receiving funds were from communities identified as High Vulnerability under the Chicago COVID-19 Community Vulnerability Index. For more demographic information on the first phase applicants, visit https:// chirecoveryplan.com/programs/gender-based-violence-reduction/.

The application will be opened in phases throughout the rest of 2023 until 5,520 survivor payments are completed.

Survivors interested in applying can visit www.the-network.org/survivor-fund/

HUNTER INVITES PUBLIC TO ATTEND LEGISLATIVE BUDGET TOWN HALL

To share important legislative and state budget updates, State Senator Mattie Hunter is holding a town hall on June 28 with State Representatives Kim du Buclet and Sonya Harper.

“This meeting will offer important updates on funding and legislation that impacts those in our community,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I invite everyone to come out and meet me and Representatives du Buclet and Harper and take part in a productive discussion.”

The town hall will be held Wednesday, June 28 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Insight Hospital in the Great Room on the 12th floor. Attendees should enter through the hospital’s main entrance at 2524 S. Prairie Ave., Chicago.

The event is free and open to the public with light refreshments served. Registration is encouraged by calling Senator Hunter’s district office at 312-949-1908.

ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL JOINS LANDMARK FTC LAWSUIT CHALLENGING ‘DANGEROUS’ PHARMACEUTICAL MERGER

Attorney General Kwame Raoul today joined the Biden administration and five attorneys general in a legal effort to block Amgen, one of the world’s largest biopharmaceutical drug companies, from purchasing Horizon Therapeutics (Horizon). In challenging the $28 billion purchase, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) alleges that the proposed acquisition raises significant anticompetitive concerns.

“This proposed pharmaceutical merger would allow Amgen to monopolize the market for certain crucial medications and reduce affordability, access and choice of drugs for vulnerable patients in Illinois,” Raoul said. “Preserving competition within the pharmaceutical industry is essential to improving access and affordability, and I will continue to partner with other attorneys general to stop the concerning increase in consolidations that raise health care costs for patients.”

Horizon specializes in manufacturing medications for rare and often severe autoimmune diseases. Two of its main drugs are Tepezza, the only FDA-approved treatment for thyroid eye disease, and Krystexxa, the only FDA-approved treatment for chronic refractory gout. Over the next few years, competing companies are expected to introduce new medications that could be strong market competitors for Krystexxa and Tepezza. For patients, the new medications could be safer, more affordable, more durable, and better at preventing debilitating disability.

The lawsuit filed by Raoul and the FTC seeks an order to prevent finalization of the acquisition because Amgen’s proposed acquisition of Horizon likely violates the Clayton Act. If the acquisition were allowed to proceed, the newly-consolidated company would be free to muscle out competitors from the market for autoimmune disease medications. If it takes over Horizon, Amgen could leverage its market power to negotiate with insurers and pharmaceutical benefit managers for preferred or even exclusive access for Tepezza and Krystexxa on health plans – in effect, making it potentially impossible for new, more affordable medications to reach patients.

Amgen’s history of leveraging its existing market power and bundling its drugs to exclude competitors only increases this risk, which would ultimately deter other companies from researching and introducing new drugs, and reduce affordability for vulnerable patients.

Joining Attorney General Raoul in this lawsuit are attorneys general from California, New York, Minnesota, Washington and Wisconsin.

Take Time Off This Summer, But Not From Your Finances

SPONSORED BY J.P.MORGAN CHASE & CO.

Summer is here, bringing all the fun that comes with months of warm weather and hours of daylight. As you plan your summer season itinerary, however, you might discover you’re juggling more expenses than just a trip to the beach.

For parents, there’s the cost of day camp or other child care. At home, you might be cranking up the air conditioner more often. Even that short beach trip can be costly after paying for gas, food and maybe a souvenir.

Unexpected summer expenses can impact your budget if you’re not careful. Common summer-specific costs to be aware of as you make your budget include:

1Child care and summer activities: Many parents have to make plans for their younger children when they’re out of school. Summer day camps are a great option, but they can be costly. If you prefer to hire a summer babysitter or nanny to care for your children in your home, the costs can be similar depending on how many hours the caregiver works and their hourly rates.

2Home maintenance: More time at home means more air conditioner use, which can drive up your utility bills. Your water bill might increase in order to care for your lawn and garden, which will need to be maintained more frequently. You may find more time in the summer for those home beautifi-

cation projects on your list, but they come with a price.

3 Travel: Most people will save in advance of a big trip, but it’s easy to get caught off guard by how much money you can spend at less costly local attractions as well. If you go to your county fair, prepare to shell out more than you might expect for a few rides and games. If you’re taking longer trips, the cost of transportation, lodging and multiple meals only add to your expenses. Even with the best advance planning, many people find they spend much more than they envisioned just doing things they enjoy.

Saving for summer

Knowing your savings timeline is key. Think about when you’ll need to start saving for summer costs and put aside extra money as early as possible, if you have that option. Also consider making a special budget for summer that includes some of the expenses listed above that apply to your lifestyle. Some budget suggestions include:

1Figure out the largest costs of your summer trip first and decide your bucket list “must-haves.” What experiences are most important when you’re making your itinerary? Budget for airfare, hotel, food and your dream excursions, and cut back on anything else that’s outside your budget.

2Check out freebies: Museums are often free on certain days in the summer. Plan a short day trip around those dates.

3Look for lower-priced or no-cost children’s daytime programs offered through local recreation centers, park districts, libraries and school districts.

4Input summer-specific expenses in an online budget calculator. If you’re doing an annual budget already, make sure to add these additional, summer-specific expenses so you know what to expect when it’s time to pay. Doing the planning ahead of time and knowing what costs you’ll face to adjust your budget accordingly can help you enjoy your summer plans without worrying about how you’ll afford them.

For more saving tips, visit chase.com/personal/financial-goals/budget

Blk Grvty Inks Deal to Lead Known’s Innovation Lab

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- On Juneteenth, Known, a finance and asset management firm, announced its new partnership with Blk Grvty, to lead the establishment of their innovation lab, where philanthropy will be used as a tool to experiment with new, future-proof capital models.

Blk Grvty is a research and innovation enterprise working to create a world where Black people and others from the New Majority in the US are wealthy and well. Known manages, structures and deploys capital with and for large asset owners committed to investing with a racial, social, and environmental lens.

Under the leadership of co-founders Dr. JaNay Queen Nazaire, its Chief Executive Officer, and Chipo Sachirarwe, its Chief Operating Officer, Blk Grvty has advised companies on Black wealth creation, explored new models in capital deployment, and conducted research towards normalizing Black and other New Majority wealth and wellbeing. The organization draws from a community of influential players in the finance industry. Their clients and funders include some of the world’s largest corporations and foundations that are innovating within the issues most impacting

communities of color.

To commemorate the announcement of the partnership, Blk Grvty, A Known Lab, will be making a $100,000 grant to Monique Woodard, the Founder and Managing Director of Cake Ventures—a venture capital fund focused on investing in demographic change and the companies building for tomorrow’s internet users.

“We always knew that having a philanthropic strategy would be important for our work at Known, but we wanted it to be driven by alternative models,” said Jim Casselberry, CEO of Known Holdings. “We wanted our philanthropic strategy to build new systems to fuel the changes so deeply needed in finance. In Blk Grvty we’ve found innovators ideally suited to lead this vision for us. We’re delighted to welcome JaNay and Chipo, and we can’t wait to see the results we’ll achieve as we grow together.”

“From the beginnings of Known and Blk Grvty, our paths have increasingly intersected,” said Dr. Nazaire. “We can’t wait to scale together and to do it in our own way, starting by replacing self-congratulatory celebrations with a grant to support a visionary investor who is working to

fund companies that reflect our nation’s changing demographics.”

“At a time when all we seem to hear about is struggles and gaps, I’m delighted that Blk Grvty is focused on the opportunities,” Woodard said. “It means a lot to see their vote of confidence in what I’m building comes in the form of something I can put into action directly with the founders I support.”

Blk Grvty, A Known Lab marshals and deploys resources to hasten the world in which wealth and well-being for Black people and others in the New Majority is normalized. Blk Grvty increases asset ownership and wealth through curated capital deployment and intentional connections. They create connections and accelerate action among BIPOC investors and especially with the financial, philanthropic, and entrepreneurial communities where action has traditionally been absent.

For more on Blk Grvty, please visit https:// blkgrvty.com/

Known is a finance and asset management firm that manages, structures and deploys capital into places that matter. Launched in 2021, Known Holdings is Black-, Indigenous-, Latinx- and Asian American-founded, and serves as a growth platform for the investment and sustainable growth of BIPOC fund managers, financial advisors, bankers, and entrepreneurs.

African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund Announces $3.8M in

At a time when Black history is being suppressed, these grants will further support the preservation of 40 sites across the country representing African American history

New to this year’s grant announcement is a focus on conserving Black modernist sites along with further fueling the preservation of our nation’s Historically Black Colleges & Universities

Established in 2017, the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund is the largest U.S. fund to preserve African American Sites, dedicated to igniting a cultural reckoning to expand America’s understanding of its own history and culture

African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund is a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In recognition of Juneteenth, the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, announced $3.8 million in grant funding to protect and preserve 40 sites representing African American history. With more than $95 million raised, the Action Fund is the largest resource dedicated to the preservation of African American historic places.

“The Action Fund’s investment in and celebration of 40 historic African American places illustrates our belief that historic preservation plays an important role in American society,” said Brent Leggs, executive director, African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund and senior vice president, National Trust for Historic Preservation. “The history embodied in these places is emblematic of generational aspirations for freedom, the pursuit of education, a need for beauty and architecture, and joys of social life and community bonds. That’s why the Action Fund believes all Americans must see themselves and our shared history in this year’s grantee list if we are to create a culturally conscious nation.”

Since 2017, the Action Fund has received an unprecedented total of 5,638 funding proposals requesting $655 million. The program has supported 242 grantee projects through its investment of $20M.

“The Action Fund and the local preservationists it supports across the nation are leading crucial work to protect and promote undervalued places and stories that are an essential part of our shared American history,” said Justin Garrett Moore, program officer for the Humanities in Place program at the Mellon Foundation. “Grants supporting projects designed by Black architects and at HBCUs will better acknowledge the power and creativity of those who have shaped and stewarded spaces and experiences that build more just communities. By elevating these places through much-needed organizational capacity, technical assistance, capital funding, and programming, these projects will help tell a fuller American story.”

New to this year’s list is a targeted focus on conserving modernist structures designed by Black architects. In its first grant round, eight historic structures will receive $1.2M to help advance long-term preservation planning. This funding is part of the Conserving Black Modernism partnership led by the Action Fund with support from the Getty Foundation.

“Our understanding of modernism in the United States will remain incomplete until we recognize the extraordinary contributions of Black architects and designers, whose buildings speak to the experience of Black communities in this era,” said Joan Weinstein, director of the Getty Foundation. “These grants will preserve important sites, deliver training to the people who care for them, and reveal new stories for all of us about the talents and resiliency of Black architects in twentieth century America.”

The preservation of Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) across the country is also a focus of this year’s grant announcement. Through the Action Fund’s HBCU Cultural Heritage Stewardship Initiative , six HBCUs will receive nearly $700,000 funding to ensure the protection of their cultural assets.

The Action Fund’s 2023 list of grantees’ expand the American story by including sites like: Idlewild’s Hotel Casa Blanca (MI), Calfee Training School (VA), Watts Happening Cultural Center (CA), McAfee Swimming Pool (KS), Dew Drop Inn (LA) and more.

As our nation honors Emancipation and

Juneteenth, the Action Fund asks the public to learn more about these sites, consider donating to their specific fundraising needs and make certain the full American story is told.

Together, we can honor the contributions of those who came before us while ensuring that future generations can connect with their roots, draw inspiration and lessons from the past, and appreciate the cultural, architectural, and social legacies of the world they will inhabit.

With amounts ranging from $50K to $150K, Action Fund grants support preservation efforts across four categories: Building Capital: Supporting the resto-

Grants

ration and rehabilitation of cultural assets important to Black history

Increasing Organizational Capacity: Providing leadership staff positions within nonprofits stewarding Black heritage sites Project Planning and Development: Funding planning activities tied to the development of preservation plans, feasibility studies, and fundraising Programming and Education: Advancing storytelling through public education and creative interpretation

Learn more about the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund at www. savingplaces.org/actionfund.

Teva Unveils Misa Hylton Capsule Collection with Macy’s

GOLETA, Calif., PRNewswire -- Teva®, a division of Deckers Brands (NYSE: DECK), announces the launch of its collaboration with fashion architect, Misa Hylton. The Teva x Misa Hylton capsule collection celebrates Hylton’s signature style, delivering one-ofa-kind takes on two fashion-forward Teva sandal silhouettes: the Flatform Universal and Hurricane XLT2 Gladiator.

Misa Hylton, a renowned fashion icon, delivers a collection that features luxe details to add a fun pop to your summer attire, including vibrant graphics and unique metal hardware on Teva’s signature strapping system. Known for creating legendary moments in music and fashion for iconic hip hop and R&B artists, Hylton has been shaping style for decades. The Teva x Misa Hylton capsule collection highlights the designer’s bold and colorful aesthetic. The limited-edition Flatform Universal ($80) features straps based on graphic sketches, mixed with rich colored abstract paints, and premium gold metal hardware, while the new evolution of the Hurricane XLT2 Gladiator ($135) is accented in peach blossom tones, soft suede details, and pops of luxe gold metal.

Unique to this collaboration, Hylton draws upon her Japanese heritage as inspiration for both iconic designs. The combination of color and gold hardware take on the classic Teva silhouettes, inspired by Misa’s passion for jewelry while adding a touch of luxury.

“I have a deep appreciation for bold and vibrant prints, as well as Japanese graffiti, which not only celebrate my heritage but also reflect my passion for Hip Hop style and culture,” says Misa Hylton. “When designing for

the Teva x Misa Hylton collaboration, I wanted to infuse these elements to create a timeless collector’s item - a small piece of my world - that can be dressed up or down, offering versatility and flexibility, while remaining unique and original.”

“We are excited to partner with Teva for this limited-edition collaboration with Misa Hylton. Misa’s style is one-of-a-kind and she has created a versatile collection, providing our Macy’s customers with even more ways to own their style,” remarks Christopher Steinmann, VP, Center Core at Macy’s.

In addition to her revolutionary fashion contributions, Hylton founded the Misa Hylton Fashion Academy, which aims to educate and empower the next generation of fashion creatives. She is also a recipient of the Gucci Changemakers Grant and a global creative partner for MCM. Hylton’s impact on the fashion industry has been celebrated in the 2019 documentary The Remix: Hip Hop x Fashion.

“What we choose to wear and the combination of how we wear these items together weaves a subtle story about who we are as an individual,” says Anders Bergstrom, Vice President, Global GM of Teva Footwear at Deckers Brands. “Through our collaboration with Misa Hylton, we want our consumers to own and celebrate their individual style without having to sacrifice comfort for fashion, while still creating a collection that empowers you to take on all your everyday adventures.”

The Teva x Misa Hylton collaboration is available exclusively at Macy’s, Macys.com and Teva.com.

Teva

The Air Jordan 2 “H” Wings Pays Tribute to a Legend of Jordan Brand

(Black PR Wire) Basketball culture has the power to move the world forward. For Jordan Brand, no one has embodied the potential of the game quite like Howard “H” White – the inimitable legend and mentor who has helped Air Jordan (and countless others around the world) take flight. He’s now Vice President of Jordan Brand Affairs, as well as a co-creator of Jordan Brand Wings. To honor H’s impact on the brand and the global community of basketball, Jordan Brand is releasing the limited-edition Air Jordan 2 “H” Wings inspired by his storied career.

The Air Jordan 2 — H’s favorite Air Jordan silhouette — has been crafted to the original 1987 design specs, including the shoe’s shape and fit.

Inspired by H’s time at Virginia’s Kecoughtan High School, the shoe’s coloring features white, green and black, commemorating the team where “H” first picked up a basketball (later becoming an All-American and an NBA draft pick). The shoe’s upper quarter panel includes a handsketched wings graphic designed by Israel Mateo, Jordan Brand Special Projects Footwear Designer. The lower quarter panel and upper are made with premium leather. The heel counter is constructed with a translucent finish featuring a gold foil “H”

logo, a nod to H’s iconic college jersey and setting a gold standard for oneself. The lace tips contain “Power” and “Belief” on each respective tip, both directly inspired by what “H” has brought to Jordan Brand.

Jordan Brand Wings exists thanks to H’s vision. It was his commitment to inspiring the next generation that laid some of the earliest foundations for the brand’s community programming, including Jordan Brand Wings. In 2015, alongside a small group of teammates, “H” co-created the Jordan Brand Wings initiative to help youth define greatness on their own terms through higher education, and access to guidance, mentorship and opportunity. A Wings shoe is released annually to help recognize the achievements of the students in the Jordan Brand Wings Scholars Program.

Coinciding with the launch of the Air Jordan 2 “H” Wings this year is the welcome of the Jordan Brand Wings Scholars Class of 2027, which celebrates 38 driven, committed students across LA, NYC, Portland, Chicago, Philadelphia and Charlotte, making up the largest cohort of North America Wings Scholars to date.

Jordan Brand/BlackPRWire

Reps. Davis, Pascrell, Schneider, Blumenauer, Moore, and Evans Lead Bill to Create Guaranteed Annual Funding for Gun Violence Prevention

Washington, D.C.- On June 22, 2022, Reps. Danny K. Davis (DIL), Bill Pascrell, Jr., (D-NJ), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Gwen Moore (D-WI), and Dwight Evans (D-PA) recognized June as Gun Violence Prevention Month by introducing The Gun Violence Prevention and Safe Communities Act - legislation to create guaranteed annual funding for gun violence prevention. The bill would increase the federal excise tax on guns and ammunition by just half a percent and apply the federal excise firearms tax to assault-weapon frames and receivers which currently are not taxed if sold separately. The bill would direct the estimated $20 to $36 million in new revenue to four programs designed to make communities safer: community-based violence prevention grants; gun violence research; hate crimes prevention and enforcement; and forensic examiner training to improve gun crime clearance rates.

“The gun violence crisis in America inflicts epidemic harm on individuals, families, and communities, and the federal government must substantially invest in gun violence prevention,” said Rep. Davis. “Not one penny of current federal excise taxes on guns and ammunition goes to gun violence prevention. Further, the federal gun tax has remained the same for over 100 years, and the ammunition tax is the same as it was during World War II. The Gun Violence, Prevention and Safe Communities Act, is an important part of comprehensive gun violence prevention because it creates guaranteed annual funding to stop gun violence via a small increase of 0.5% in existing excise gun and ammunition taxes. This bill also closes a major loophole in tax law that allows many assault-type weapons to evade taxes altogether. This bill is important in ensuring federal investment every year to make our communities safer. We must do more to help Chicago and communities across the nation.”

“Gun violence continues to threaten communities from coast to coast and Congress has a responsibility to stem the crisis,” said Rep. Pascrell, co-Chair of the House Law Enforcement Caucus. “After decades of inaction, raising the tax on firearms would provide an offset to the massive cost to society of gun violence – exactly as taxes on alcohol and tobacco have successfully done. At the same time, this legislation will provide critical resources to our badly strapped state and local police forces, community

anti-violence programs, and gun violence research. This bill would be a down payment on safeguarding our children, our communities, and our future. It is the type of solution the American people demand.”

“This summer, my community was devastated by gun violence when a deranged individual used an assault rifle to open fire on a joyful July 4th parade in Highland Park, murdering 7 and wounding many others,” said Congressman Schneider. “These weapons of war should be off our streets altogether. And beyond robbing us of our loved ones, many assault-style weapons regularly evade taxes entirely. This bill will close this undeserved tax loophole and make sure that assault weapons are taxed the same way as other firearms. It will also generate much-needed funding for gun violence prevention efforts, a critical step to addressing the gun violence epidemic in my community and in communities across the country.”

“When active shooter drills become as common as fire drills and earthquake drills in our children’s schools, we can no longer deny that gun violence in America is a crisis,” said Congressman Blumenauer. “While there is no single solution to ending gun violence, there are common sense solutions that can dramatically reduce gun violence and critically, save lives. This legislation to create annual funding certainty for gun violence prevention programs is a critical, common sense step we can take now to address the unrelenting trauma of gun violence in our communities.”

“The threat of gun violence is an issue that my constituents and millions of Americans often confront every day,” said Rep. Moore. “We can and must use every tool available to help end gun violence, including fixing discrepancies in our tax laws and empowering our communities with more funds for programs aimed at reducing violence. That’s why I am proud to join my Ways and Means colleagues in championing this important legislative initiative.”

“Guaranteed annual funding for gun violence prevention – estimated at $20 million to 38 million per year – would be an important tool in the toolbox to save lives, and I’m proud to support it,” said Rep. Evans.

Brady: United Against Gun Violence: “Over 400 million firearms have been sold in the United States, yet, unconscionably, no portion of the government funds

generated by gun sales or dealer licensing have been directed to programs which address and prevent gun violence in America. By modestly increasing those funding streams and directing those resources to research, crime gun intelligence, and violence intervention and prevention programs we can better protect our communities. Brady is grateful to Rep. Davis for re-introducing this life-saving legislation, which will ensure federal funding for critical gun violence prevention programs. – Kris Brown, President of Brady

“Investing tax dollars from gun sales in life-saving gun violence prevention measures is a common-sense way to keep our communities safe,” said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. “We applaud Representative Davis and his colleagues for sponsoring this update to our nation’s tax policy, which will support programs and organizations focused on addressing America’s gun violence crisis.”

“Over one million Americans have been shot since my neighbor used an AR15 to hunt and kill 26 children and educators in Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012.

Gun violence is a public health crisis with an annual taxpayer price tag of $280 Billion. It’s time for gun owners to help fund the hefty cost of gun violence in the U.S. and we urge Congress to swiftly pass the Gun Violence Prevention and Safe Communities Act and send it to the President’s desk.” —Po Murray, Chairwoman or Newtown Action Alliance. Violence Policy Center: “The need to invest federal resources in gun violence prevention has never been more urgent as we are experiencing unprecedented levels of gun death and injury. The Gun Violence Prevention and Safe Communities Act will ensure that assault weapon manufacturers are fairly taxed and that those funds will be used to reduce gun violence,” said Violence Policy Center Government Affairs Director Kristen Rand. “The Violence Policy Center applauds Representatives Davis and Pascrell for their leadership on this innovative strategy to provide dedicated funding for gun violence prevention.”

This legislation is supported by: Brady: United Against Gun Violence; Everytown for Gun Safety; Giffords; Newtown Action Alliance; and the Violence Policy Center.

ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL CHARGES FORMER USDA EMPLOYEE WHO ALLEGEDLY USED GOVERNMENT-ISSUED CREDIT CARD FOR PERSONAL USE

Chicago – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today announced a Cook County man was arraigned after the Attorney General’s office alleged he fraudulently used a government-issued fuel credit card to

purchase more than $10,500 in fuel for personal use.

Attorney General Raoul charged Victor Mazon, 52, of Chicago, Illinois, with two counts of theft, one a Class 2 felony punishable by

Family

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three to seven years in prison and the other a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days in jail; four counts of official misconduct, Class 3 felonies punishable by two to five years in prison; one

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count of wire fraud, a Class 3 felony punishable by two to five in prison; and one count of driving with a suspended license, a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days in jail. Mazon pleaded not guilty, and his next scheduled court date is Aug. 23, 2023.

“Public servants are entrusted with resources that allow them to better perform their work on behalf of the taxpayers they serve. It is unacceptable that some individuals would abuse those resources for their own benefit,” Raoul said. “I will continue to partner with agencies at all levels of government to hold individuals accountable who exploit government funds and abuse the public’s trust for their personal gain.”

Raoul’s indictment alleges Mazon was employed full time as an agricultural commodity aid for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and was responsible for sampling and inspecting the condition of grain, rice and miscellaneous agricultural commodities to ensure it meets contract specifications. In his role, Mazon was required to drive a government-issued vehicle to various grain facilities and was given a government-issued fuel card to purchase gasoline.

After receiving allegations of suspicious activity from the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), the U.S. General Services, Office of the Inspector General (GSA-OIG) and the USDA-Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG) initiated an investigation. Raoul alleges the investigation found Mazon used a government-issued fuel card for nearly two years to purchase $10,544.23 worth of gasoline for his friends and associates. The investigation also found Mazon allegedly drove his government-issued vehicle after his driving privileges were suspended by the state of Illinois.

“Using one’s official position to commit fraud against the U.S. Government is an intolerable act that violates the public’s trust,” said USDA-OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Shantel R. Robinson.

“Federal employees who use public funds for personal financial gain will be held accountable,” said GSA OIG Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey P. Ryan. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to fight fraud and safeguard taxpayer dollars.”

The public is reminded the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Deputy Bureau Chief Jonas Harger is prosecuting the case for Raoul’s Public Integrity Bureau.

The Biden-Harris Administration Takes Additional Actions to Address Mental Health Needs of Young People and Make Communities Safer from Gun Violence

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) took additional steps to advance the investments and efforts set forth by President Biden’s Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) -- the most significant bipartisan gun safety legislation in nearly 30 years. BSCA set forth crucial mental health investments and actions to prevent and respond to gun violence in communities, ensure that those experiencing grief and trauma resulting from gun violence have access to high-quality mental health services, and supports to make our schools safer and expand community violence interventions.

“It’s no secret that we are facing a mental health crisis in this country, and our children are hurting,” said U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra. “That is why this Administration is committed to addressing this crisis through continued efforts, investments, and more. The actions being announced today will make it easier for schools to receive payment for the mental health services they deliver to students impacted by gun violence. At HHS, we will continue working to ensure young people have more places to turn to for help.”

“Too many students have experienced gun violence in their schools and communities. The grief and trauma caused by gun violence undermines their ability to learn and thrive and has only heightened the national youth mental health crisis,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The Department of Education is using every available resource to maximize the investments made through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to help schools build an infrastructure of care and support for students. The Biden-Harris administration will continue working to break down silos between education and health care, raise the bar for our support of students’ mental health and wellbeing, and ensure our schools are safe havens for teaching and learning.”

To advance the mission of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, Secretaries Becerra and Cardona sent a joint letter to governors highlighting resources to help states, communities, and schools support students’ mental health and well-being, particularly students impacted by gun violence. The letter highlights ED’s investments and capacity-building efforts that will expand and improve school-based mental health services, address community violence, provide wraparound supports, and promote a safe and supportive school climate. The letter also outlines HHS’s efforts to support the development of school-based mental health supports; prepare and train school personnel, emergency first responders, law enforcement and others to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health impacts from gun violence; and increase treatment and support services for individuals and communities affected by trauma, including trauma caused by gun violence.

ED and HHS are working together on BSCA implementation because today’s young people are facing unprecedented challenges and disruptions in their school lives and communities, including increased disconnection and social isolation as well as increased gun violence. These challenges have had devastating effects on students’ mental health and well-being, which in turn have profound implications for their academic success and their overall life outcomes. These new actions help extend the impact of BSCA in keeping our communities safe, bringing new resources and protections to bear both in addressing the mental health challenges that young people face so that all students can learn freely and safely every day and curbing gun violence in our communities.

The Biden Administration has taken a multifaceted approach to BSCA implementation to deliver on crucial protections and

resources to help prevent gun violence in schools and support the development of high-quality school-based mental health services.

At ED, this includes awarding $286 million to date across 264 grantees in 48 states and territories to boost the training, hiring, and diversification of mental health professionals in schools through its SchoolBased Mental Health and Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration grant programs (which will result in an estimated 14,000 additional mental health professionals in schools); distributing $1 billion in the Stronger Connections Grant program to help schools in high-need districts provide

students with safe, welcoming, and supportive learning opportunities and environments that are critical for their success; and providing an additional $50 million to supplement before and after-school programming for young people through the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers, through evidence-based practices that increase attendance and engagement among middle- and high-school aged youth.

At HHS, nearly $245 million in funding has been awarded to support youth mental health, help the health care workforce address mental health needs, and fund other critical mental health supports; $70 million to help develop and support school-based

mental health programs; almost $60 million to prepare and train school personnel, emergency first responders, law enforcement and others to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges; and almost $55 million to increase treatment and support services for individuals and communities affected by trauma caused by gun violence. In the coming months, HHS will also provide almost $60 million to states and territories for the second of four increments in supplemental funding for the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant for mental health treatment and recovery services including crisis services and early serious mental illness treatment programs.

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Celebrated artivist Nikkolas Smith illustrates reality of patients living with sickle cell disease

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire

-- Celebrated artist Nikkolas Smith revealed exclusive artwork today illustrating the important role blood donations play for people living with sickle cell disease, the most common — yet often invisible to the public eye — genetic blood disorder in the U.S., which predominantly affects those in the Black community.

The digital portrait commissioned by the American Red Cross, entitled “Transfusion,” is a call to raise broader awareness about sickle cell disease and the important role donors who are Black play in providing a compatible blood match. One in three African Americans are a match for people with sickle cell disease.

Smith sat down with four sickle cell warriors of various ages — Tiereny Bell, Dr. Rubin Beaufort, Dreylan Holmes and Erica Hunter — to capture and represent their lived experiences in “Transfusion.” From 12-year-old Dreylan Holmes’ misunderstood experience at school leaving him isolated from friends to Tiereny Bell’s excruciating pain limiting her work schedule as an epidemiologist, warriors’ experiences are vast and common, yet widely still underrepresented in everyday conversation.

“People will sometimes say to me, you don’t look sick,” said Bell. “And I respond, well, what does sick look like?”

WHY SICKLE CELL DISEASE?

An estimated 100,000 people across the U.S. — the majority of whom are of African descent — have sickle cell disease and may require regular blood transfusions to help manage their disease. Blood transfusions are essential in managing the very real pain and long-term health of those with sickle cell disease, which distorts soft and round red blood cells and turns them hard and crescent-shaped, both of which are depicted in Smith’s artwork. As a result, blood has difficulty flowing smoothly and carrying oxygen to the rest of the body, which may lead to severe pain, tissue and organ damage, anemia, and even strokes.

“What stood out to me the most when speaking with these incredibly brave sickle cell warriors is how much constant pain they endure due to the malfunctioning cells in their body, but also the level of determination they have to maintain in order to push through until their next blood transfusion,” Smith said.

HOW BLOOD DONORS HELP

Unfortunately, frequent transfusions can make finding compatible blood types more difficult when patients develop an immune response against blood from donors that is

not closely matched to the blood of the recipient.

“Sickle cell disease can be inherited by anyone of any race and ethnicity, but in the U.S., the great majority of individuals who have the disease are of African descent,” said Dr. Yvette Miller, executive medical director of the Red Cross. “Nikkolas’ art reinforces that donating blood helps sickle cell warriors stay in the fight, while inspiring each of us to roll up a sleeve so they don’t have to fight alone.”

Dr. Rubin Beaufort, a retired mechanical engineer, has received more than 240 blood transfusions to date and still endures high levels of pain regularly. “We’re facing this every single day, not just once in a while,” he shared, emphasizing the ongoing need for blood. Forty-one-yearold microbiologist Erica Hunter, who was forced to retire from her job early due to complications of the disease, has received more than 50 blood transfusions to date.

“I was so moved to learn how [sickle cell warriors’] health greatly improves after every generous blood donation and transfusion,” Smith reflected. “My hope is that we can exponentially increase the number of lifesaving blood donations and transfusions this year.”

Smith’s art is part of the Red Cross Sickle Cell Initiative, which seeks to address health disparities associated with sickle cell disease by increasing much-needed blood donations from individuals who are Black through community partnerships and helping to ensure closely matched blood products are available for patients.

Donating blood is simple, and summer months can be a challenging time to maintain a sufficient blood supply. Individuals of all blood types are urged to make an appointment now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800733-2767).

Advancing Health Equity: Deloitte Launches ‘Illustrate Change’

Medical

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Deloitte is proud to announce the launch of “Illustrate Change,” a project that seeks to build momentum around representation in medical illustrations and reduce health disparities among people of color, in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson. With its launch, Illustrate Change will immediately make available 25 diverse medical illustrations. The illustrations showcase the work and unique vision of Chidiebere Ibe. Ibe’s impactful Black fetus-in-womb illustration sparked a global conversation about representation in medical images in 2022. His work, alongside that of many other noteworthy medical illustrators, inspired this collaborative effort. Illustrate Change aims to build the largest library of diverse medical illustrations and demonstrates a commitment to address the lack of representation in medical imagery.

“The launch of Illustrate Change marks a step forward toward a more representative medical education system. Illustrations are an important visual tool used in both medical and patient education,” said Chidiebere Ibe, chief medical Illustrator of Illustrate Change. “I’m proud my illustrations will play a vital role in continuing to raise awareness of gaps in the representation of medical images. Closing these gaps helps avoid implicit bias within healthcare settings and increases awareness of how conditions present on different skin tones, which could have very critical implications for health outcomes. I hope these images inspire future generations of medical illustrators.”

Currently, less than 5% of medical images show dark skin. Only 8% of medical illustrators identify as people of color. The Illustrate Change digital library, made possi-

Illustration Library

ble by a grant from the Johnson & Johnson ‘Our Race to Health Equity’ commitment, will house a collection of diverse medical illustrations across a range of health conditions. The library will continue to grow and evolve, reflecting a more representative patient population. The initial 25 images will represent 23 conditions across dermatology, maternal health, eye disease, oncology, general health, orthopedics, and hematology.

The Deloitte Health Equity Institute, in collaboration with Deloitte Digital, played a crucial role in helping to bring Illustrate Change to life. Inspired by the power of illustrations such as Chidiebere Ibe’s Black fetus in-womb, the Deloitte Digital team saw the need for a digital library that would increase diversity in the world of medical illustrations. Driven by the movement, the team connected the Deloitte Health Equity Institute and Johnson & Johnson with the proposal and led the development of the digital library. Healthcare leaders within the Deloitte Health Equity Institute shaped the strategic direction of the program, led cross-sector collaboration, and facilitated the medical review process alongside Johnson & Johnson.

“Illustrate Change is essential in addressing health disparities and achieving health equity. By increasing diversity in medical illustrations, we can help improve medical education, reduce bias, and ultimately provide better, safer, and higher quality care for everyone,” said Dr. Jay Bhatt, managing director of the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions and Deloitte Health Equity Institute. “Deloitte is proud to be part of this much needed movement and to contribute our unique expertise across creativity, healthcare, and digital innovation.”

To further support the mission of Illustrate Change,

Johnson & Johnson has engaged the Association of Medical Illustrators (AMI) to offer the AMI Diversity Fellowship. This fellowship program will nurture the training and education of 10 medical artists, encouraging them to create 100 new medical illustrations featuring patients of color over the next year.

“Nurturing the training and education of medical artists from diverse backgrounds will naturally result in healthcare visuals that more accurately reflect the diverse patient population,” said Jill Gregory, president of the Association of Medical Illustrators. “Over time the Fellowship will endeavor to bring greater visibility to issues of health equity and increase the pipeline of medical and scientific illustrators from under-represented communities of color. This fellowship can not only amplify the voices of underrepresented communities but also contribute to the promotion of health equity and improved patient care.”

The Deloitte Health Equity Institute was established because of the stark inequities illuminated by COVID-19 and businesses had to lean in with other stakeholders to advance health equity as a moral and economic imperative. DHEI is addressing disparities in the drivers of health, racism/bias, and structural flaws in the health system. DHEI is focused on investing in programs to directly improve people’s lives, drive new approaches and tools to advance health equity, and activate key decision makers to help ensure that our health ecosystem is advancing health equity as an imperative. By advancing health equity, Deloitte aims to help everyone achieve their full potential in health and well-being, fostering a more equitable society.

Entitled “Transfusion,” this digital portrait -- commissioned by the American Red Cross and created by celebrated artivist Nikkolas Smith -- is a call to raise broader awareness about sickle cell disease and the important role donors who are Black play in providing a compatible blood match. One in three African Americans are a match for people with sickle cell disease. PRNEWSFOTO/AMERICAN RED CROSS.

Pritzker Administration Launches Home Illinois Anti-Homelessness Initiative

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker, together with the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and members of the Interagency Task Force on Homelessness and the Community Advisory Council on Homelessness, hosted the inaugural Home Illinois Summit at Malcolm X College in Chicago. The summit, which brought together community leaders, and experts to discuss potential solutions and strategies, served as a launch for major next steps in the Home Illinois plan, a multi-year holistic approach to reach “functional zero” homelessness in the state.

“We must continue working together to find solutions to ensure that every Illinoisan has access to essential housing and support,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This is a first-of-its-kind multi-agency endeavor — bringing together state agencies, nonprofit organizations, advocates, and people with lived experience to take an intergovernmental approach to preventing and ending homelessness. I’m grateful for their dedication and believe that together, we can prevent and end homelessness once and for all.”

Since the launch of the Interagency Task Force via executive order in 2021, the Pritzker administration has taken significant steps to address homelessness in Illinois. The Home Illinois plan expands affordable housing options, targeting individuals in high-risk situations (including homeless college students and those leaving medical care), and providing comprehensive support for individuals experiencing homelessness.

The plan also focuses on bolstering the safety net, securing financial stability for clients, and closing the mortality gap all through the lens of racial equity with the goal of correcting the racial disparity among unhoused individuals.

Governor Pritzker’s FY24 budget commits almost $360 million for the initiative, an $85.3 million increase from FY23. These investments include:

$118 million to support unhoused populations seeking shelter and services, including $40.7 million in the Emergency and Transitional Housing Program.

$50 million in Rapid ReHousing services for 2,000 households, including shortterm rental assistance and targeted support for up to two years.

$40 million in Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Capital funds to develop 90+ new PSH units providing long term rental assistance and case management.

$37 million in Emergency Shelter capital funds to create more than 460 non-congregate shelter units.

$35 million for supportive housing services, homeless youth services, street outreach, medical respite, re-entry services, access to counsel, and other shelter diversion supports.

$21.8 million to provide homelessness prevention services to approximately 6,000 more families.

$30 million for court-based rental assistance.

$15 million to fund Home Illinois Innovations Pilots.

$12.5 million to create 500 new scattered site PSH units.

“Homelessness is not only an issue of housing justice, but one of racial justice, public safety, mental health and economics,” said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. “In fact, it is the intersection where many of

these issues come together, so I am grateful for the partnership of Governor JB Pritzker and the resources his administration has provided to ensure that housing remains a human right, and we protect our all of our unhoused children, families and communities.”

“I applaud Governor Pritzker for his leadership and commitment in combatting homelessness. Today’s summit is just one part of our ongoing efforts to address homelessness in the state,” said Grace B. Hou, Secretary, the Illinois Department of

Human Services. “Through the Home Illinois initiative and other programs, we are working alongside the Governor and our partners to ensure that every person in Illinois has access to safe and affordable housing. With continued commitment and collaboration, we can make significant progress in reducing homelessness and increasing access to housing for all Illinoisans.”

The Home Illinois plan is led by Illinois’ first-ever Chief Homelessness Officer, Christine Haley, who brings 18

years of experience to the mission of preventing and ending homelessness.

“We are working to bring solutions to address homelessness across the state. Today is an important step forward to address key issues, gather input, and identify further solutions for those facing a housing crisis,” said Christine Haley, the state’s first-ever Chief Homelessness Officer.

For more information, visit https:// www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=30360.

people in the same situation

SFJAZZ Appoints Terence Blanchard Executive Artistic Director

SAN FRANCISCO, PRNewswire -- SFJAZZ announces the appointment of Seven-Time Grammy Winner and Two-Time Academy

Award Nominee Terence Blanchard as Executive Artistic Director. This new position will lead the organization’s artistic programming and guide its overall creative direction. Blanchard’s appointment comes as SFJAZZ Founder Randall Kline prepares to step down this year from the organization he founded in 1983.

This year, SFJAZZ is celebrating its 40th Anniversary and the 10th Birthday of the award-winning SFJAZZ Center. Blanchard joins SFJAZZ as it presents the 40th San Francisco Jazz Festival and the 20232024 season beginning September 7.

Blanchard is a renowned composer, bandleader, and trumpet player who has been a consistent artistic force for making powerful musical statements for over 40 years. From his stint with Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers to writing scores for Spike Lee and other films, he is unique in the jazz world as an artist whose creative endeavors go far beyond the genre into film scoring, crafting television series soundscapes, and conceiving grand operas that have been recognized at the highest levels of art appreciation. A recipient of a 2018 USA Artist Fellowship and a 2023 Peabody Medal, Blanchard is also a passionate educational mentor, having held positions at the Berklee College of Music, The Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, and as Chair of Jazz Studies at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, amongst many others. Additionally, Blanchard has been at the forefront of giving voice in his works to socio-cultural issues and racial injustices of our time.

Blanchard has had a long relationship with SFJAZZ and has performed numerous times at the SFJAZZ Center and for the organization. From 2014-2016, he was a SFJAZZ Resident Artistic Director and, in 2016, presented his opera Champion: An Opera in Jazz. Most recently, in August 2022, his

Documentary Puts the Spotlight on Land Ownership Challenges Facing Black Farmers

MOLINE, Ill., PRNewswire -- Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) and Al Roker Entertainment announced a new documentary focused on the legacy of Black farming in America and the devastating impact of heirs’ property – property passed to family members by inheritance, usually without a will or proper estate planning. Without a clear title, Black farmers are unable to qualify for government assistance, equipment financing or agricultural programs designed to optimize their land. In 2020, John Deere created the LEAP Coalition in partnership with the National Black Growers Council and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund to provide resources for farmers and landowners to resolve heirs’ property issues.

“This film serves as an important platform for Black farmers to delve into their history while also discussing impactful ways to sustain agriculture and places to go for help with legislation and available grants,” said Al Roker, executive producer. “The organizations featured in the film are creating change and it’s one of the reasons our company was so interested in getting involved with this important work.”

Created in partnership with Emmy-nominated director Eternal Polk, the documentary, Gaining Ground: The Fight for Black Land, addresses how landowners are reclaiming their agricultural rights and their paths to generational wealth. The film will debut at the American Black Film Festival in Miami on June 15, 2023, and appear in screenings across the country this summer.

“Documentaries can offer a lens into history and shed light on a forgotten or untold story. It’s more than just a form of storytelling, it’s a way to offer new viewpoints on an issue, create lasting dialogue, and drive change,” said Gaining Ground director Eternal Polk. “With Deere’s support, we were honored to help bring this important story to life. This documentary provides resources to those who are dealing with heirs’ property and shows others how they can get involved to support this cause.”

Black land ownership peaked in 1910 at 16 to 19 million acres, which was about 14 percent of total arable land in the United States. A century later, 90 percent of Black-owned land has been lost, and heirs’ property has been the leading cause for that decline. The documentary shines a spotlight on the challenges Black farmers and landowners’ must navigate to preserve their land for future generations. The film additionally showcases subject matter experts and practitioners’ who are actively working to address these issues.

E-Collective with Turtle Island Quartet performed at the SFJAZZ Center.

As Executive Artistic Director, Blanchard will be the artistic leader of the organization and will help formulate and implement artistic programming across diverse disciplines and genres. He will work closely with the teams at SFJAZZ to curate year-round concert programming, expand the SFJAZZ ‘At Home’ digital platform, and further develop community engagement and educational offerings. Blanchard’s appointment comes after a national search, conducted by Arts Consulting Group.

Said Blanchard, “I am honored and excited to become a part of such an amazing and historic institution. SFJAZZ has meant so much to the development of America’s Greatest artform. I am looking forward to collaborating with the staff while also bringing my own ideas about how to move our music forward and continue the SFJAZZ mission to explore the full spectrum of jazz—from its origins to its diverse and evolving expressions around the world today. I cannot wait to continue this journey.”

“For farmers, land provides more than a livelihood, it provides a legacy. For far too long, Black farmers have had to deal with often coercive constraints, barriers and systems that result in involuntary loss of land, economic value and wealth. This documentary provides an opportunity for folks to tell their stories, highlight injustice and hopefully serve as a catalyst for concerted action to address this little known but important and pervasive issue” said Marc Howze, Senior Advisor, Office of the Chairman, Deere and Company. “The message of this documentary is clear: We need to do more to help Black farmers and landowners unlock the tremendous value in the land they already own to help us feed, clothe and shelter a growing population while pursuing opportunities to build wealth and provide a legacy for future generations.”

John Deere created the LEAP Coalition in 2020 in partnership with the National Black Growers Council and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. The LEAP Coalition provides legal, educational and other resources to help farmers and landowning families gain clear title of their land. It works to unlock economic value for farmers, while also eliminating systemic barriers to wealth building faced by Black farmers and other historically disadvantaged communities.

To learn more about the LEAP Coalition, to help Black farmers, and provide support to support LEAP coalition partners visit: https://www.deere.com/gainingground.

To learn more about the documentary, visit: https://gaininggroundthefilm.com/. Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, construction, and forestry equipment. We help our customers push the boundaries of what’s possible in ways that are more productive and sustainable to help life leap forward. Our technology-enabled products including John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor and tillage solution, See & Spray™, and E-Power Backhoe are just some of the ways we help meet the world’s increasing need for food, shelter, and infrastructure. Deere & Company also provides financial services through John Deere Financial.

For more information on Deere & Company, visit us at www.deere.com/en/news/.

Formed in 1994, Al Roker Entertainment (ARE) is an industry-leading producer of original, award-winning TV programs and digital content. Led by 14time Emmy winning TV personality and trusted media authority Al Roker, ARE partners with a creative consortium of producers, directors, writers, agencies, and talent to ideate, produce, activate, and amplify original content globally, using a variety of broadcast, cable, OTT, social, and streaming platforms. ARE works with brands, non-profits, ad agencies, and PR companies to generate and inspire audiences through social impact branded entertainment storytelling.

SFJAZZ Executive Artistic Director Terence Blanchard at SFJAZZ Center in San Francisco, CA. PHOTO CREDIT SCOTT CHERNIS

The Great Exhale™, A Soft Space for Black Women, Launches

JERSEY CITY, N.J.,

PRNewswire -- The Great Exhale™, a private membership community created for Black women by Black women, opened its virtual doors on Juneteenth. Designed to be a soft space where Black women can nurture themselves and each other, The Great Exhale (TGE) was founded by Lisa Hurley and Liz Leiba, noted activists in the DEI and Social Justice arenas.

Through their advocacy work, the friends and business partners uncovered a theme which mirrored their own lived experiences: Although many organizations encourage their employees to “show up as their authentic selves,” that is often not possible for Black women. They are frequently forced to code switch, mask, and otherwise dim their light. Being constantly on guard against microaggressions, retaliation, or simply being “the only,” can prove exhausting to the body and spirit. Leiba and Hurley saw a need for a community where Black women could relax, lay their burdens down–and exhale.

“Black women keep fighting for seats at tables where we are not welcome. So, we decided to build our own,” states Liz Leiba, Co-Founder of The Great Exhale. “Our mission is to provide a nurturing space for Black women around the globe to embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-empowerment, and self-love, while surrounded by a community of sisters to encourage them.”

“We decided to establish the community as a private one in order to protect our members as much as possible,” explain Leiba and Hurley. “Most Black women are trolled, targeted, and harassed in public online spaces. By making The Great Exhale a private community, our goal is to minimize harm so that our members can feel at ease.”

The Co-Founders made a strategic decision to launch TGE on Juneteenth. They are reclaiming the holiday as a day of liberation for Black women to rest, divest, and de-stress.

“The themes of liberation, agency, and celebration are embedded into the meaning of Juneteenth. This is why we decided to launch The

Great Exhale on such a culturally resonant holiday. Our goal is that TGE will be an oasis for Black women. Our vision is that it will be a soft soothing sanctuary where Black women feel seen, valued, loved, relaxed, and most importantly–free,” notes Lisa Hurley, Co-Founder of The Great Exhale.

Founded by Lisa Hurley and Liz Leiba, The Great Exhale™ is a private membership community built exclusively to center Black women. It is a soft space designed for Black women around the globe to collectively relax, lay their burdens down—and exhale.

The Great Exhale facilitates this by creating a virtual forum for Black women to:

Be in community with a supportive sisterhood

Divest from the tyranny of overwork

Be free from having to constantly code switch

Be as excellent or as average as they choose Openly share lived experiences and have them validated by folks who understand…

Enjoy a softer, friendlier, more fulfilling life

Members will benefit from community support, empowering content & events, exclusive learning journeys, authentic connections with like-minded women, and more. Membership starts at $40/month.

Find The Great Exhale Online at www. thegreatexhale.com.

Black is Beautiful Volume 2 Launches Globally to Support the National Black Brewers Association

SAN ANTONIO, PRNewswire -- Black is Beautiful, an influential initiative launched by Weathered Souls Brewing CO in 2020 in support of equality and social justice reform, is making a resounding comeback. This time, the movement stands firmly alongside the National Black Brewers Association, with 100% of the proceeds supporting the newly launched organization in its efforts to foster inclusivity and black representation in the brewing industry.

With its roots firmly planted in raising awareness about the daily injustices endured by people of color, Black is Beautiful garnered remarkable global momentum in 2020. Uniting 1601+ breweries across all 50 states in the United States and 21 countries worldwide and raising over 5 million in funds to support local charities. Brewers participate by promoting sales of the open source “Black is Beautiful” stout and adding their own creative spin on its evolving recipe.

“Black is Beautiful Volume 2 embodies the spirit of solidarity, empowering the brewing community

to embrace diversity and equality” said Marcus Bakersville co-founder and head brewer at Weathered Souls Brewing. “Our alliance with the National Black Brewers Association, will continue to pave the way for a more inclusive beer industry.”

This initiative comes on the heels of the National Black Brewers Associations launch in May, the first of its kind non-profit will direct Black is Beautiful proceeds towards impactful efforts that align with its mission to create a more equitable and diverse beer industry through education, policy, and community.

Weathered Souls Brewing Company is a renowned James Beard nominated craft brewery based in San Antonio, Texas. Founded by Marcus Baskerville and Mike Holt in 2016, the brewery has gained widespread recognition for its exceptional beer offerings, community engagement, and commitment to social justice. Visit our website at: https://weatheredsouls.beer/

Less than 1% of craft breweries in the U.S. are owned by African Americans and there is no single

entity to help African American brewers and brewery owners with their specific needs and issues.

Given these challenges, the National Black Brewers Association (“NB2A”) was formed as a 501c6 membership-based non-profit organization to:

Promote the Black brewing community as a first-of-its kind organization.

Increase the number of African Americans in the brewing industry at all levels of production, especially ownership and brew master.

Exercise political influence by developing and advocating for effective policy; and

Foster understanding about the history and legacy of African American brewing in the United States.

The NB2A is governed by a dynamic Board of Directors composed of the most experienced and successful Black brewery owners and brew masters across the country. For more information on the National Black Brewers Association, visit our website at: www.nationalblackbrewersassociation.org.

Elizabeth Leiba (l) and Lisa Hurley (r), Co-Founders of The Great Exhale™

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