Chicago Weekend Citizen 7-12-2023

Janel Young has been creating art since she was a child. Art chose her and she’s always come back to it. Her path to doing art professionally was not linear.

Artist Janel Young, known for her vibrant geometric murals, collaborated with artist Thomas Evans to create a mural of Congressman Danny Davis for the Safer Foundation. PHOTO PROVIDED BY JANEL YOUNG.

GOV. PRITZKER NAMES PRECIOUS BRADY-DAVIS TO METROPOLITAN WATER RECLAMATION DISTRICT BOARD

Chicago — Governor JB Pritzker announced his appointment of Precious Brady-Davis to the board of commissioners for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) of Greater Chicago. Brady-Davis currently serves as Associate Regional Communications Director at the Sierra Club and has an extensive history as an advocate and nonprofit coordinator. She will fill the currently vacant seat on the nine-member board of commissioners.

“The appointment of a lifelong advocate and trailblazer like Precious Brady-Davis will bring another fierce voice in defense of environmental justice and equity to the MWRD board,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I am proud to appoint her to this essential role and hope that Black, trans youth across Illinois see a role model for civic engagement and service to others that reflects their own identities and experiences in her work.”

MWRD of Greater Chicago protects Lake Michigan and local waterways from environmental concerns, and manages wastewater, stormwater, and drinking water projects and programs in the Greater Chicago area. Their 2021-2025 Strategic Plan calls for a commitment to environmental responsibility and health and safety as the region adapts to the growing effects of climate change.

“I’m honored to join the board and serve the nearly 13 million people who access MWRD services every day,” said Precious Brady-Davis. “MWRD has a responsibility to lead in environmental problem-solving while protecting the most vulnerable members of the Chicagoland region. These are both missions I have worked for throughout my life, and I look forward to continuing that work with MWRD.”

Brady-Davis previously ran for MWRD Commissioner in 2022. She was the first Black trans woman to ever appear on the Cook County Ballot. Brady-Davis has also served as deputy press secretary and regional communications manager for the Sierra Club, as well as Youth Outreach Coordinator at the Center on Halsted and Assistant Director of Diversity Recruitment Initiatives at Columbia College Chicago. She is a graduate of Columbia College Chicago with a degree in liberal arts.

SIMMONS INITIATIVE PRIORITIZING DRIVER, PEDESTRIAN SAFETY SIGNED INTO LAW SPRINGFIELD – Local governments will not compromise driver or pedestrian safety in order to accommodate large trucks on non-designated highways thanks to a new law advocated for by State Senator Mike Simmons.

“Widening intersections to accommodate larger trucks takes away space that can be used for bike lanes, pedestrian walkways and green space,” Simmons said (D-Chicago). “This law will ensure these bike lanes, walkways and open spaces will remain available to community residents to use and enjoy.”

The new law provides that an agency or local government will not be required to design, construct, widen or alter a non-designated highway to accommodate trucks between 55 and 65 feet in length. Additionally, a local government will be required to report to the Illinois Department of Transportation any limitations that prohibit the operation of vehicles on non-designated highways and any non-designated highway that is not designed or constructed after Jan. 1, 2023 to accommodate trucks between 55 and 65 feet in length.

“Highway construction can be time-consuming, dangerous and significantly impact traffic f low,” Simmons said. “This law will allow local governments to avoid such a big undertaking by not requiring them to change their non-designated highways to accommodate larger trucks and vehicles.”

Senate Bill 2278 was signed into law on Friday and goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2024.

Artists creates mural depicting work of Congressman Danny Davis

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

In school, teachers encouraged Young’s parents to pay attention to her art abilities. When she was in elementary school, she went to an art camp, and she loved it. In middle school, she majored in art at Rogers Middle School for the Creative and Performing Arts in Pittsburgh, Penn. She loved how she felt when she was creating art and loved being able to explain her work to other people. Being able to get concepts that were in her mind out in the world in physical form was rewarding to her. During that time, she began creating large scale murals.

At Pennsylvania State University, Young studied Business Marketing and International Studies. She wanted to go into a field that would allow her to be creative, but was more practical, career wise. Once she graduated from college, she got a job in Public Relations in NYC. In New York, she got back to creating art again, going to shows after work.

Young started volunteering with an organization that created murals in NYC. They ended up hiring her full-time when she left her corporate job. She has been creating art professionally since 2018. Recently, a mural Young created at the Safer Foundation depicting the work of Congressman Danny Davis was unveiled.

Young is part of a cohort of the Bridging Fellows Program, which is run by Independent Sector. Being part of that program connected her to the Safer Foundation, and she was able to learn what the organization does. Someone mentioned Safer Foundation was looking for an artist to create a mural. Young decided to do a site visit at the end of 2022.

“I was really impressed with all the work they were doing. I was very aligned with the values they have,” she said. Young

was directed to submit a proposal for the mural, along with some other artists. Her proposal won that bid.

To get a feel for the Safer Foundation, Young attended some events, and talked to clients and people who worked there. She was able to use all of that, along with the research she did on Davis, to create a design that tied together hopefulness and history.

Young’s work has a very distinct style of geometric-inspired shapes, colors and compositions. Young’s inspiration for her work comes from her own experiences, as a Black woman, as someone who is excited about color and as someone who is excited about helping people feel joyful. She also has been fortunate to see and be a part of so much culture and so much joy, through her work and otherwise, and she is always trying to exude that, with whatever she is putting out in the world. The Safer Foundation really wanted Davis’ likeness in the mural, so Young collaborated with another artist who is known for portraiture, Thomas Evans, who goes by Detour. The result is a mural at the Safer Foundation that reflects Young’s mural style and Evan’s portraiture and has Davis’ likeness at the center of it.

“This project is really such an honor to do. I was able to meet with Congressman Davis and visit on site and get his reaction to the piece and it was so heartwarming. I’m really fulfilled by how the project turned out; how impactful it already is and will be. Just raising the curiosity about who Congressman Davis is, what he’s accomplished and what he’s done for the community surrounding the mural,” she said, adding she wants people to see it as a storytelling piece.

For more information about the work of Janel Young, visit janel-young.com. For more information about the Safer Foundation, visit saferfoundation.org.

16th Annual Firefest Hip Hop Block Party

The Firehouse Community Arts Center of Chicago is excited to present the 16th Annual Firefest from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, at 2111 S. Hamlin Ave in North Lawndale. The anticipated family-focused event is the only hip-hop block party on the west side featuring viral sensation LaRussell.

The Pepsi and St. Anthony-sponsored event is strategically designed to actively keep guests in the space all day to engage in many neighborhood activities. There will be activations stations for the youth, adults, and the entire family. There will be food, music, artwork, yoga, basketball tournaments, graffiti artwork, an EMC battle, game trucks, bouncy houses, and more throughout the day. Many local hip-hop artists are scheduled to perform throughout the day. Closing out the block party will be an unforgettable performance from viral hip-hop sensation LaRussel, who will give his authentic and heartfelt flows.

“The Firefest is important because it brings the

community together and continues to perpetuate hope within our youth and young adults,” said founder and CEO Pastor Phil Jackson. “Our block party has always elevated hip hop as an artist tool towards transformation in the lives of our community. People look forward to the North Lawndale community coming together to celebrate the power of the arts for transformation, the arts, and youth.”

To attend the 16th Annual Firefest Hip Hop Black Party, we encourage free registration:

https://events.eventnoire.com/e/16th-annual-firefest-hip-hop-block-party-feat-laru?fbclid=IwAR1axPuyWbH3VVy_IlA0G3SPK4mA7SSGXWBNPx3wTMxZCNywfm9Y078LCDA

The Firehouse Community Arts Center has served as a haven for young people in the Chicago area for over a decade. It has been coordinating various events and art programs dedicated to preventing and interrupting youth

Artists Thomas Evans and Janel Young collaborated on a mural for the Safer Foundation that depicts Congressman Danny Davis. PHOTO PROVIDED BY JANEL YOUNG.

TEDxWrigleyville Hosts “Insightful Acceleration” at Wrigley Field on July 24th

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- TEDxWrigleyville, winner of multiple Telly Awards and among the most prestigious and prolific TEDx production groups globally, announces its 2023 program titled “Insightful Acceleration” taking place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, July 24, at the iconic Wrigley Field (1060 W Addison, Chicago, IL).

TEDxWrigleyville 2023 will explore innovative solutions to complex modern problems and help us all to think critically about the trends, technologies, and social movements that are shaping our future. As we have entered a state of perpetual global crisis – driven by geopolitical conflict, inflation, rapid advancement of technology, climate change, and social division – we must think creatively and root our decision-making in intentionality about the future we are collectively building. The pace of change and complexity of modern problems demand in-

creased intentionality around solutions that move us in the right direction. In this series, we will pause to ask not just “what comes next?” but also “what do we hope comes next, and what creative solutions will help to move us in that direction?” Featuring top thought leaders and experts in the field, this event will offer invaluable insights around our most pressing global challenges.

This independently organized event, licensed by TED, will feature speakers, performances, and activations led by founder and executive producer Shermin Kruse and her team of curators and volunteers.

“I’ve never been prouder of our phenomenal team of speakers and curators, all of whom are volunteers, devoting hundreds of hours of their time to diversify the world of ideas and help propel our society to a more thoughtful, innovative, and prosperous future,” adds Kruse.

The 2023 speakers include: David Ambroz (National Poverty and Child Welfare Advocate), Dr. Abiodun Durojaye (ED of Urban Alliance Chicago), Eve Geroulis (Professor), Yao Hang | Board Director/Climate Activist, Jason William Johnson (Director/Professor), Dr. Inna Kanevsky (Psychologist/TikTok Influencer), Harry Lennix (Actor/Activist), Madison Mohns (AI Developer), Angela Neese (Clinical Psychologist), and Whitney Reynolds (Producer/Storyteller.)

Performances to be featured include Texas blues/rock music by Ally Venable Band and Star-Spangled Banner by Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s principal trumpet, Esteban Batallán.

TEDxWrigleyville 2023 gives special thanks to the Chicago Cubs and Atlas Media for their support.

live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations.)

TED is on a mission to discover and spread ideas that spark imagination, embrace possibility and catalyze impact. Our organization is devoted to curiosity, reason, wonder and the pursuit of knowledge — without an agenda. We welcome people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world and engagement with others, and we invite everyone to engage with ideas and activate them in your community.

SIMS ENDS YOUTH SOLITARY CONFINEMENT

State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. led a new law to end youth solitary confinement – leading to better outcomes for children who are detained.

“Sadly, across the nation, young people are being held in solitary confinement for unreasonably long periods of time, sometimes spending 22 hours or more alone each day,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “That is inhumane and can cause long-term grave psychological, physical and developmental harm.”

Sims’ law prohibits the use of solitary confinement on young detainees in detention centers for any purpose other than preventing immediate physical harm.

Young people in solitary confinement are isolated both physically and socially, often for days, weeks, or even months on end. Sometimes there is a window allowing natural light to enter or a view of the world outside cell walls. Sometimes it is possible to communicate by yelling to other inmates, with voices distorted, reverberating against concrete and metal. Occasionally, they get a book or bible, and if they are lucky, study materials. But inside this cramped space, few contours distinguish one hour, one day, week, or one month, from the next.

CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

Chatham, Avalon Park, Park Manor,GreaterGrand Crossing, Burnside,Chesterfield, West Chersterfield, South Shore,and Calumet Heitghts.

Tickets for TEDxWrigleyville are $100 - $125 per person and can be purchased at www.tedxwrigleyville.com. For more information about TEDxWrigleyville please visit the website or Facebook. Follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.

TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design converged. Today it spans a multitude of worldwide communities and initiatives exploring everything from science and business to education, arts and global issues. Aside from the hundreds of TED Talks curated from our annual conferences and published on TED.com, we produce original podcasts, short video series, animated TED-Ed lessons and TV programs that are translated into more than 100 languages and distributed via partnerships around the world. Each year, more than 3,000 independently run TEDx events bring people together to share ideas and bridge divides in communities on every continent. Through the Audacious Project, TED has helped catalyze nearly $3 billion in funding for projects that seek to make the world more beautiful, sustainable and just. In 2020, TED launched Countdown, an initiative to accelerate solutions to the climate crisis and mobilize a movement for a net-zero emission future. View a full list of TED’s many programs and initiatives.

Serves

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and

TED is owned by a nonprofit, nonpartisan foundation. Our aim is to help create a future worth pursuing for all.

Follow TED on: LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, Mastodon, Twitter and Facebook.

16TH ANNUAL... Continued From Page 2

and young adults caught in the violence. The Firehouse Community Art Center was birthed from youth and young adults in North Lawndale who attended an all-youth and young adult Saturday night Hip-Hop worship service in 2003, started by Pastor Phil Jackson. Youth and young adults came from all over the community and city to engage in the arts. This prompted Pastor Phil and

several partners to incorporate The Firehouse Community Art Center as a 501(c)(3) in 2006, and 2007 they purchased the 100-year-old Chicago Firehouse in North Lawndale. The Firehouse now offers year-round, multi-disciplinary cultural arts programming, mentorship, leadership, and workforce development centered around preventing and interrupting violence.

“For children, who are still developing and more vulnerable to irreparable harm, risks are magnified – particularly those with disabilities or histories of trauma and abuse,” said Sims. “Children should not be deprived of the services, programming, and other tools they need for healthy growth, education, and development. We should be helping children grow into productive and healthy adults, not harming them, this is particularly true when they have come into the criminal legal system. If we are going to have true safety and justice, we must invest in a criminal legal system that creates pathways to success not one that tears down our young people and creates a cycle of recidivism.”

Senate Bill 3140 was signed into law Friday.

BELT LAW TO MAKE AMUSEMENT PARKS SAFER

State Senator Christopher Belt is making amusement rides and attractions safer for families, thanks to a new law that will require amusement parks to have at least one staff member qualified to administer CPR.

“This law will enhance safety standards and ensure the well-being of visitors at amusement parks statewide,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “It is important that we acknowledge the need for effective emergency response in high-risk environments and that we implement policies that will ensure the safety of our community members and state visitors.”

The new law requires a park’s owner or operator to ensure that at least one operator working on site has been certified to provide first aid and CPR.

“This law is crucial for safeguarding the lives of people looking to simply enjoy an amusement park,” said Belt. “Providing trained personnel who can effectively handle medical emergencies will offer peace of mind to park-goers and their families.”

The governor signed House Bill 3097 into law on Friday, June 30 and it goes into effect Jan. 1, 2024.

PETERS COMBATS WAGE THEFT

To reduce wage theft and provide workers with more time to recover wages owed to them, State Senator Robert Peters’ measure extending the recovery time was signed into law.

“Wage theft is no better than regular theft. It uplifts the State on the backs of the working class,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This measure seeks to give working people more time to recover unpaid wages.”

Under previous minimum wage laws, the Illinois Department of Labor was able to recover wages on behalf of an employee but was not always able to locate and pay the employee by the time investigations and court processes were completed. Peters’ new law extends the time for wage recovery to three years to give the Department of Labor and employees more time to recover back wages.

Additionally, Peters’ law ensures that money recovered and held beyond the three-year recovery period is deposited into the Wage Theft Enforcement Fund and the Unclaimed Property Trust Fund. Previously, unclaimed wages held by the Department of Labor beyond the recovery time were transferred to the state’s General Revenue Fund.

“Educating employees on where they can find their money is more rewarding than placing their earnings into the General Revenue Fund,” Peters said. “Boosting the General Revenue Fund with recovered wages that people are owed is not an ethical or sustainable way to increase revenue. People deserve as much time as possible to recover their unpaid wages.”

House Bill 3227 was signed into law Friday.

The Most Powerful Black Social Impact Network That You’ve Never Heard of Just Turned 10 and Is Changing Minds on Equity

DETROIT, PRNewswire -- In 2013, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation spun off BMe Community, an innovative Black leadership network. Since then, its members have created hundreds of award-winning social impact programs, achieved extraordinary policy breakthroughs, and are leading a paradigm shift in philanthropy’s approach to equity.

On July 1, 2023, BMe Community celebrated its 10th anniversary by launching the “Build More Equity” tour to teach its high-impact paradigm shift, called “Asset-Framing®,” to more foundations and social impact leaders.

Asset-Framing is a cognitive science-based approach to building equity that focuses on defining people by their aspirations and contributions before noting and addressing their challenges. The impact of this approach, along with the achievements of BMe members is prompting leaders to reassess their approach to equity-building.

“Learning about Asset-Framing is like discovering that you’ve been trying to walk up the down escalator,” says Blue Meridian Partners’ Chief Investment Officer, Jim Shelton.

The Black leaders in BMe Community have:

Changed the Florida constitution in 2018 to allow 1.4 million formerly imprisoned people to vote thanks to the Florida Restoration Rights Coalition, led by Nobel Peace Prize nominee Desmond Meade.

Financed over $500 million in property loans in low-to-moderate income Black communities in Boston, Miami, and LA through OneUnited Bank, co-owned and led by Teri Williams.

Exposed $156 billion artificial devaluation of property in Black neighborhoods across America through the research of Dr. Andre Perry at the Brookings Institution, which informs the Biden Administration’s wealth gap strategy.

Purchased Pensole Lewis College in Detroit and partnered with DSW, Versace, Jimmy Choo, General Motors, the Toronto Raptors, Detroit Pistons and others to make it the premier HBCU for careers in the product creation industries. All led by legendary footwear designer Dr. D’Wayne Edwards.

During a National Public Radio interview, On Being host Krista Tippet called, Asset-Framing “A cognitive skill for magnifying humanity that is necessary for all healing and building.”

“It’s the best equity training I’ve ever experienced,” says Interfaith American founder Eboo Patel.

The Build More Equity tour not only educates leaders on Asset-Framing but also aims to generate funds for BMe’s Black and multiracial Leadership Community Programs. Penn State University’s 10-year impact study revealed that BMe provided initial funding to 66% of the supported Black-led initiatives, which in turn attracted investments 54 times larger than BMe’s $10,000 angel grants.

Eighty-five percent of leaders in these programs say they are “incredibly effective at building trust” and 100% collaborate with each other thereafter.

The 2023 Skillman BMe Vanguard and BMe Vanguard programs are funded by Skillman Foundation, McKnight Foundation, Ballmer Group, and the NBA Foundation. These programs support unsung, proximate Black leaders who have dedicated their lives to helping others to live, own, vote and excel.

Founded by Trabian Shorters, Sarah Multidor and Benjamin Evans, BMe Community demonstrates how to build more equity, trust, collaboration, and impact without stigmatizing people. BMe encourages foundations, associations, and social impact leaders who want to have similar successes to email partner@bmecommunity.org.

BMe’s mission is to build more caring and prosperous communities, inspired by Black people. BMe is supported by your generous donations, and leading foundations including McKnight Foundation, Skillman Foundation, NBA Foundation, Ballmer Group, Langeloth Foundation, Knight Foundation, Chicago Beyond and TrabianShorters.com.

Written by Ken L. Porter who is the founder and Chief Storyteller at Porter Media Group (PMG Agency), an acclaimed social impact communications firm in Detroit, MI. He serves as the Executive Producer for Journey of Stories, an original film series by PMG highlighting the global Black narrative. Ken is a recipient of the Skillman BMe Vanguard Award and has been recognized as a Michigan Chronicle 40-Under-40 awardee.

Northwestern Mutual Recognized Among the “Best Companies for Diversity” by Black Enterprise Magazine

MILWAUKEE, PRNewswire -- An unwavering commitment to respect and inclusion is core to Northwestern Mutual’s culture – a quality that earned the company acclaim from one of the nation’s premier news outlets for Black and African American business professionals. Black Enterprise has named Northwestern Mutual to its list of Best Companies for Diversity, recognizing the firm’s ongoing efforts to foster a diverse and equitable workplace.

“We aim to celebrate and support diversity in all facets of our organization – from our talent across our campuses, to our business and supplier partners,” said Amy Hanneman, Northwestern Mutual’s vice president – diversity and inclusion. “We know that when we diversify, we attract better talent, enhance our capabilities, increase our relevance and grow our client base. We are honored that Black Enterprise acknowledges our relentless efforts to cultivate a workplace where everyone can be and do their best, and we remain committed to this work because it is in the best interests of our policyowners.”

Northwestern Mutual is dedicated to providing an inspiring, inclusive work environment. The company has eight award-winning employee resource groups (ERGs), multi-year strategies focused on inclusion such as its Women’s and Sustained Action for Racial Equity initiatives, and recently announced a $500 million investment in its headquarters campus to expand its best-in-class workplace. The plans further the goal of creating an unparalleled campus experience, fostering connection and collaboration among employees and retaining the next generation of talent.

The company has also been recognized with numerous workplace awards – including several that exemplify the company’s desire to champion greater diversity, equity and inclusion – such as:

Four consecutive perfect scores on the Disability Equality Index (2019-2022)

Eight consecutive perfect scores on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index (2015-2022)

2023 Forbes’ America’s Best Large Employers

2022 National Business Inclusion Consortium Top 50 Best-of-the-Best Corporations for Inclusion Military Friendly Award (2021-2022)

Top 50 Company for Multicultural Women in Leadership (2021)

Seramount’s Best Companies for Dads (2021)

Seven ERGs ranked in the Top 25 nationally by the Association of ERGs & Councils (2021)

Diversity Best Practices Top 100 Companies for Diversity (2020)

To learn more about Northwestern Mutual’s workplace accolades, please visit news.northwesternmutual.com/ awards-and-recognition.

Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 165

years. Through a comprehensive planning approach, Northwestern Mutual combines the expertise of its financial professionals with a personalized digital experience and industry-leading products to help its clients plan for what’s most important. With more than $558 billion of total assets being managed across the company’s institutional portfolio as well as retail investment client portfolios, nearly $35 billion in revenues, and $2.2 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than five million people with life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, and brokerage and advisory services. Northwestern Mutual ranked 111 on the 2023 FORTUNE 500.

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), Milwaukee, WI (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Subsidiaries include Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (investment brokerage services), broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC; the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC) (investment advisory and services), federal savings bank; and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company (NLTC) (long-term care insurance). Not all Northwestern Mutual representatives are advisors. Only those representatives with “Advisor” in their title or who otherwise disclose their status as an advisor of NMWMC are credentialed as NMWMC representatives to provide investment advisory services.

BMe Community Co-Founders; Benjamin Evans, Sarah Multidor, and Trabian Shorters. PRNEWFOTO.

Empowering the local workforce

We’ve invested nearly $100 million in workforce development. Alongside hundreds of other employers and community partners, we’re increasing the talent pipeline by helping our neighbors get the skills and experience to build careers that support families and fuel our economy.

Rita Sola Cook President, Bank of America Chicago

Photos by L.M. Warbington Photography

The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois Thanks You

Fourteen-Hundred Strong Walked for Kidneys; Find Out How You Can Still Help

Chicago – In June, the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois (NKFI) welcomed 1,400 patients, family members, friends, and supporters of those with kidney disease to Diversey Harbor for the 24th annual Walk for Kidneys. People from all over Chicagoland turned out to embrace NKFI’s mission of improving the health and well-being of those at risk or affected by kidney disease through prevention, education, and empowerment. They raised more than $237,000, which will go directly towards the crucial programs cultivated by NKFI and will provide services for people affected by or at risk of kidney disease across Illinois.

“We cannot thank Chicagoland enough for the vital support it provides consistently to the work that we do to support those impacted by kidney diseases across this state,” said Jacqueline Burgess-Bishop, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer of the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois. “This disease does not discriminate, but our Black and Brown communities are disproportionately impacted by kidney disease. It is only with the community’s help that we can change the trajectory of this disease.”

NKFI also thanks Baxter International, Inc. for being presenting sponsor of the 24th Annual Walk for Kidneys. Other sponsors include Associates in Nephrology, Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois and Indiana, Cook County Meds Disposal Initiative, Fresenius Kidney Care, NxStage, Rush University Medical Center, Somatus, and more. If you missed the walk, you can still donate to the cause by visiting www.nkfi.org/walk.

Statistics show that 1 in 3 American adults is at risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and 1 in 7 American adults already has CKD. NKFI seeks to improve these statistics by educating the public on the risk factors, offering support to those with the disease, and funding research.

About the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois

The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois improves the health and well-being of individuals at risk for or affected by kidney disease through prevention, education and empowerment. To learn more about the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois and its programs, please visit www.nkfi.org.

ComEd wants you and your family to experience the thrill of the ComEd EV Rally and enjoy a day at the Museum of Science and Industry—for free on Saturday, July 29th! Witness nine teams of Chicagoland girls race electric go-karts with the help of ComEd mentors.

The transition to clean energy is creating STEM jobs and opportunities in Northern Illinois. Programs like the EV Rally are helping prepare tomorrow’s workforce today.

VISIT ComEdEVRally.com FOR TICKET INFO AND TO LEARN MORE ABOUT UPCOMING STEM EDUCATION EVENTS.

West Town Chamber of Commerce Announces Full Lineup and Programming for Dancing in the Streets

CHICAGO, ILL. – As festival season continues, The West Town Chicago Chamber of Commerce (WTCC) is thrilled to announce the lineup and event programming for Dancing in the Streets! In partnership with On Tour Brewing Company, the annual street fest highlights West Town’s growing brewer community with live music, dancing, local food vendors and makers, and a vast selection of craft beer from the Chicago Brewing District. The celebration kicks off Friday, August 4th through Sunday, August 6th, 2023 promising cold brews and hot jams that include headliners Terrapin Flyer, Rock & Rye and Old Shoe, with more than a dozen bands rounding out the lineup.

This year’s festival will benefit Arts of Life, as well as the year-round efforts of the West Town Chamber of Commerce, helping to support and showcase the talent, vibrancy and collaborative spirit that make West Town and its Brewing District a destination for locals and visitors alike. This year’s Dancing in the Streets will also offer plenty of activities for the kids! The street fest will feature live art making curated by Kiss The Brain, and for the first time: a family-friendly “Lil Hops Fun Zone” presented by Altitude Trampoline Park and KitchFix.

While Dancing In The Streets is a celebration of the West Town neighborhood and community, it was also born out of the spirit of peace and love championed by the Grateful Dead. It’s no accident that the name of the event is also a popular Grateful Dead song. Further, the festival dates were chosen specifically to coincide with the “days between,” which is the name of the week celebrating the memory of Jerry Garcia between August 1st, Jerry Garcia’s birthday, and August 9th, the date that Garcia passed away.

Dancing in the Streets takes place on Hubbard Street between Paulina and Wood (1700-1800 W Hubbard St. Chicago IL 60622) on Friday, August 4th from 5-10PM, Saturday, August 5th from 12-10PM, and Sunday, August 6th from 12-10PM. The “Lil Hops Fun Zone” will be open Saturday, August 5th and Sunday, August 6th from 12p until 6pm. A $10 donation is requested at the gate. The full lineup of bands and live art events can be found below, and more information on the West Town Chamber of Commerce can be found on their website at westtownchamber.org.

BAND LINEUP

Presented by On Tour Brewing Company

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4, 2023

5:00-6:00PM: Magic Bus

6:30-8:00PM: Lunar Ticks

8:30-10:00PM: Rock & Rye

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5, 2023

1:00-2:00PM: Wood Street Bloodhounds

2:30-4:00PM: Trouble Ahead

4:30-6:00PM: Peach Jam

6:30-8:00PM: Terrapin Flyer (Set 1)

8:30-10:00PM: Terrapin Flyer (Set 2)

SUNDAY, AUGUST 6, 2023

1:00-2:00PM: Through a Different Lens

2:30-4:00PM: Brendan Forrest & Friends

4:30-6:00PM: Jon Gram & The Sway

6:30-8:00PM: The Brooklyn Charmers

8:30-10:00PM: Old Shoe

LIVE ART TENTS PROGRAMMING

Presented by Kiss The Brain COLLABORATORS

Laina Joy

DJ Staord

LIVE PAINTERS

Cecilio Garcia

Emma Lyons

Nick Apple

Kristen Wenc

Katie Klimaceck

Laina Joy

LIVE ART, INSTALLATIONS + WORKSHOPS

Karla Crochets: Handmade festival wear, live and interactive crochet

Rebecca Memoli: Cyanotype workshop (create your own prints, tote bags)

Jordan Campbell, Cody Norman, Tom Burtonwood: Plastic art installation, environmental trivia, live demos

Xtina and Julia: Fun, colorful festival hair and handmade accessories

Lindsey Gevry: Guided make your own jewelry and fun festival accessories

Russel Scott: Live art using a magnifying glass and the sun

Rebecca LaFlure: Chalk art inspired by the Grateful Dead

Emily Gil: Live portrait paintings and illustrations

The West Town Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)6 non-profit organization with hundreds of small business members. The Chamber’s mission is to foster community and economic development by empowering businesses with information and technical resources, creating connections, and providing neighborhood-wide marketing and other valuable programming. westtownchamber.org.

LIVE IT.

QUINTAE Student MALCOLM X COLLEGE

LIVE @ LIGHTHOUSE SUMMER CONCERTS CONTINUE WITH ALLAN HARRIS JULY 13

Soul/Jazz singer hailed by Tony Bennett as “my favorite singer” featured in performances at 7 & 9 p.m. at Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago

Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago (108 W. Germania Pl.) continues its Live @ Lighthouse summer concert series with Allan Harris. Legendary jazz and showtune singer Tony Bennett has called Harris “my favorite singer.” Harris will be showcased in 7 and 9 p.m. performances Thursday, July 13.

The Harlem-based vocalist, guitarist, band leader and composer Harris has reigned supreme as the most accomplished and exceptional singer of his generation. Aptly described by the Miami Herald as an artist blessed with, “the warmth of Tony Bennett, the bite and rhythmic sense of Sinatra, and the sly elegance of Nat ‘King’ Cole,” the ample and aural evidence of Harris’ moving artistry can be heard on his 14 recordings and his far-flung and critically acclaimed concerts around the world.

Harris’ nationally acclaimed smash “Cross That River” (2006) which tells the unsung story of America’s black cowboys and sheds light on their oft-overlooked contribution in taming the American West was featured in the New York Times and on NPR’s Weekend Edition and CBS and NBC. Harris is scheduled to release his newest recording, “Live at Blue Llama” on July 28 via Love Productions Records in collaboration with Live at Blue LLama Records. This will be Harris’ first live

album in more than a decade and was recorded this past January.

Harris’ numerous awards, include the New York Nightlife Award for “Outstanding Jazz Vocalist” – which he won three times – the Backstage Bistro Award for “Ongoing Achievement in Jazz,” the DownBeat Critic’s Poll Award for “Rising Star Jazz Vocalist,” the Hot House Jazz Magazine “Jazz Vocalist of the Year Award” in 2015 and 2016, the Harlem Speaks “Jazz Museum of Harlem Award,” France’s Palmares Award for 3rd Best Jazz Vocal Album of 2019, among others.

Remaining artists scheduled for the Live @ Lighthouse concert series include two jazz trios: the legendary Lenny White with Cyrus Chestnut and Buster Williams (Aug. 10); and Billy Hart, Yotam Silberstein and Omer Abital (Aug. 31). All jazz performances are presented in partnership with the Michael Brovkine Agency.

Tickets for all Live @ Lighthouse concerts start at $65 and are on sale at lighthouseartspace.com/chicago. In addition to the musical performance, each ticket includes a free welcome drink and the “Mozart Immersive” experience. VIP tickets include a souvenir poster signed by the featured artist/s, and a meet and greet with the performer following the show.

For more information on Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago’s programs and offerings, follow @lighthouseartspacechicago on Facebook and Instagram.

ComEd’s New and Enhanced Online Solar Calculators Help Customers Navigate Clean Energy Options

CHICAGO – ComEd announced it has introduced new enhancements to its private rooftop and community solar calculators to make it easier for customers to learn more about costs, benefits and savings as demand for these options continues to grow and contribute to the goals of Illinois’ Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), one of the nation’s most ambitious plans for renewable energy development.

“The updates to the new solar calculators make it easy for customers to determine their best options for accessing the benefits of solar energy, including the positive environmental impact they can make by reducing their carbon footprint through solar energy,” said Lewis Binswanger, ComEd’s senior vice president of Government and External Affairs. “We are available to support customers in every step of their solar journey.”

The number of ComEd residential and business customers who have installed solar systems has grown from 837 at the end of 2016 to 41,270 customers through May of this year. Additionally, there are more than 82 community solar projects in ComEd’s northern Illinois service territory and the company estimates there will be more than 100 projects serving more than 25,000 customers by the end of this year. Community solar is a popular option for customers whose roofs are not suited for rooftop solar, do not own their roofs, or want to combine rooftop solar with community solar.

Not every home is well suited for rooftop solar, which is why ComEd offers a tool to help customers get the facts to decide if rooftop solar is right for them. The interactive rooftop solar calculator evaluates a roof’s solar energy potential, including factors such as roof direction, slope and shading. To ensure that rooftop solar estimates will reflect a customers’ energy requirements, the calculator allows customers to include future electric usage that would result from electric vehicle charging or the replacement of gas appliances with electric alternatives. Customers receive a personalized report that combines current and estimated future energy usage and includes the number of solar

panels required to meet their energy needs, project costs, rebates, incentives and payback period.

The calculator also provides information on a rebate program that is newly available to residential customers through CEJA. It offers a rebate of $300 per kilowatt for an eligible distributed generation facility, such as a private solar system, and a rebate of $300 per kilowatt hour for an associated energy storage device. Customers are able to compare their potential payback with and without incorporating the rebate, enabling them to see how it would impact their estimated payback period.

ComEd also has launched a new community solar calculator, which provides estimated savings based on current energy usage. Community solar allows all ComEd customers to subscribe to a solar energy “farm” of solar panels owned by an independent developer and earn credits on their monthly ComEd bills for their portion of the energy produced by the project.

The rooftop and community solar calculators provide information on customer assistance programs, including Illinois Solar for All, which helps customers who may qualify for more affordable solar installation or community solar subscriptions through state incentives. CEJA, which was enacted in 2021, increases funding for Illinois Solar for All from $30 million to $70 million annually.

The multi-year grid and rate plans ComEd filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) earlier this year outline the proposed investments required to support this rapid expansion of renewable energy and help ensure equitable access to the benefits of clean energy under CEJA. The plans align with ComEd 2030, the company’s recently announced vision for a carbon-free energy future that will benefit all communities and meet customers’ changing needs for the rest of this decade and beyond.

To learn more about ComEd’s new and improved solar calculators visit: https://secure.comed.com/MyGeneration/

Stephen Voyce Sets Free with “Emancipation of Eze”: The New EP Chronicles His Journey of Personal Liberation

MONTREAL, PRNewswire -- Stephen Voyce, the gifted Canadian-Nigerian singer-songwriter surprised fans and broke new ground with the release of his anticipated project, “Emancipation of Eze,” a 10-track EP that marks a significant shift in his creative journey. Embarking on a new creative chapter, after years of releasing individual singles, Voyce’s transformative project showcases his vocals and artistic growth. Available now across digital stores and platforms, this collection of songs showcases Voyce’s evolution as an artist and serves as a powerful expression of freedom.

“The Emancipation of Eze” holds immense significance as Voyce’s exploration of freedom and the acceptance of letting go. The EP’s title itself hints at the overarching theme, as it reveals one of Voyce’s Nigerian names, Eze, short for Ezechinyere which translates from Igbo to English as King, reflecting his heritage.

“Hearing ‘Promise Land’ and ‘The Motion’ in this body of work feels like a homecoming,” said Stephen Voyce, highlighting the significance of these tracks in the context of the EP.

From the infectious energy of the opening track, ‘Scream,’ to the introspective melodies of the closing song, ‘Time,’ Voyce’s soulful vocals and evocative lyrics leave a lasting mark on the listener’s heart and mind. Beyond those, the EP consists of primarily new music, with ‘The

Motion’ and ‘Promise Land’ being previously released commercial tracks.

Voyce’s songwriting genius is on full display throughout, with tracks like ‘Scream’ and ‘Prophet’ showcase an unrelenting confidence, while tracks like ‘Time’ and ‘Stand by You’ reveal his emotional scars. It is that duality to his creativity that makes him honest and human.

All the new material for the EP was written, recorded, and produced by Stephen Voyce within the span of two weeks. The entire process felt like, to him, a compulsion, a need that craved fulfillment; and so his attention was hyper focused. Since the release, “Stand by You” was selected for an official R&B Spotify Playlist called “Mood Ring” which boasts over 145,000 saves.

Stephen Voyce is a multiple-award winning singer, songwriter, producer, actor, filmmaker, science geek with an ever growing following and fanbase, collaborations with artists around the world. With four commercially released albums, countless singles and collaborations, industry recognition, a budding acting career, he now finds himself in a new chapter, a chapter that sees the artist filled with confidence and a readiness to tell a new story.

To learn more about Stephen Voyce and his music, visit his official website: www.stephenvoycestore.com. PRNewsFoto

MÝA RELEASES “IT’S ALL ABOUT ME (25TH ANNIVERSARY REMIX)” VIDEO - A REINVENTED CLASSIC

Los Angeles, CA – We are thrilled to announce the premiere of Grammy Award-winning artist Mýa’s new music video, “It’s All About Me (25th Anniversary Remix)” -- a reinvented heels choreography version of her 1998 debut music video. This video celebrates Mýa’s remarkable 25-year journey in the music industry, showcasing her enduring talent as a premier dancer and performer.

The 2023 version of “It’s All About Me” is directed and choreographed by the iconic Brian Friedman, a pioneer and entrepreneur in the dance industry, who has worked with top music artists such as Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, Janet Jackson, Prince, Paula Abdul, and more. This collaboration marks another milestone in their history of successful collaborations, including Mýa’s “My Love is like Wo!” music video, Mýa’s MTV ICON tribute performance for Janet Jackson, and Mýa’s fierce “Whatever Bitch” performance from Pepsi Smash.

Mýa on working with Brian Friedman: “It was a complete full circle moment working with the incredibly dynamic Brian Friedman. We share a history of unforgettable moments, and I couldn’t be more thrilled for our 25th anniversary collaboration! His exceptional talent, musicality, technique, versatility, and expertise in both visual and live performance bring out the absolute best in artists. It was an absolute joy to connect with greatness once again.”

Brian Friedman on working with Mýa: “I was thrilled to hear from Mýa after so many years and without hesitation jumped on board for this special project! I always love my time with Mýa… as a choreographer the greatest gift you can receive is an artist who is technically trained. Mya’s vocabulary and understanding for movement is so extensive

and I had the best time bringing my work to life on her. I hope the fans love this as much as we do!”

This year marks Mýa’s 25th anniversary in the music industry. Her self-titled debut album in 1998 went double platinum, producing hit singles such as “It’s All About Me,” “Movin On,” and “My First Night With You.” Her collaborations with renowned artists such as Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, P!nk, and Missy Elliott on the Grammy winning “Lady Marmalade” and other hits such as “Ghetto Supastar”, “Take Me There”, “Case of the Ex”, “Girls Dem Sugar”, “Free” & “My Love is like Wo!” solidified her status as a cross-genre international staple. Mya is also a highly respected indelible talent across film, television, Broadway,

and gaming, with a Screen Actors Guild award for her performance in the Academy Award-winning film “Chicago.” In 2008, Mýa began her own independent label, Planet 9, and has since released various compilations and Grammy Nominated albums.

Recently, Mýa has been making waves with her viral vogue video on International Dance Day and her participation in the Humane Society’s More than a Pet campaign. She continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, with new projects on the horizon.

Grammy Award-winning entertainer Mýa is a globally celebrated singer, songwriter, producer, actress, dancer, choreographer, model, philanthropist, activist, and entrepreneur. With a career spanning over 25 years, Mýa’s alluring talent echoes around the globe and across decades as a beloved, respected artist. Her self-titled debut album in 1998 went double platinum, producing hit singles such as “It’s All About Me,” “Movin On,” and “My First Night With You.” Collaborations with renowned artists such as Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, P!nk, and Missy Elliott on the Grammy winning “Lady Marmalade” and other hits such as “Ghetto Supastar”, “Take Me There”, “Case of the Ex”, “Girls Dem Sugar”, “Free” & “My Love is like Wo!” solidified her status as a cross-genre international staple. Mýa is also a highly respected indelible talent across film, television, Broadway, and gaming, with a Screen Actors Guild award for her performance in the Academy Award-winning film “Chicago.” In 2008, Mýa began her own independent label, Planet 9, and has since released various compilations and Grammy Nominated albums. In 2023, Mýa marks her 25th anniversary in the entertainment industry…with the best yet to come!

Mya

Photos by Tia Carol Jones & NNPA

Ryan Destiny and Pacsun

Expand Partnership, Unveiling ‘90s-Inspired Summer Collection for 2023

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Ryan Destiny and Pacsun are back with the third drop of her self-titled apparel collection, created in collaboration with Pacsun. The summer collection serves as her 2023 debut and draws inspiration from closets of the ‘90s, with a curated selection of bold pieces that merge sophistication and trend into every ensemble. Destiny’s artistic prowess shines through as she infuses elements of grunge and menswear, creating a contemporary aesthetic that resonates with Gen Z’s evolving trends and shopping behaviors.

Cargo details are at the forefront, incorporating elements of utilitarian style. Parachute pants and skirts adorned with cargo accents bring a fresh take on grunge, while delicate lace and mesh details introduce soft, feminine notes. Destiny also incorporates modern silhouettes with nostalgic, low-rise bottoms, complementing vintage charm with contemporary fashion to create bold, distinctive looks.

The collection showcases a carefully curated neutral palette intertwined with cool color

Introducing Lineage Watch Co - A Timeless Fusion of Craftsmanship and Innovation

SAN DIEGO – Lineage Watch Company, a female-owned, black-owned, and family-owned and operated enterprise, proudly announces its official launch today, coinciding with the commemoration of Juneteenth. This new brand of timepieces is not only proudly built in America, but also represents a commitment to reviving the art of master watchmaking in the United States. With a passionate and diverse team at the helm, Lineage Watch Company stands as a true embodiment of the American Dream. Join us in our endeavor to revitalize the legacy of American craftsmanship, with every watch crafted by a Certified Master Watchmaker (CMW21) and hand-assembled by skilled technicians in the United States.

The Destiny Collection and The Legacy Collection will be the first Lineage watches available for purchase. The Destiny Collection (MSRP $395), a timeless minimalist design, features the Ameriquartz 7320b quartz movement. The watch’s 42mm case displays both polished and brushed finishes to accentuate the smooth elements of the case’s design, features an elegant Milanese metal bracelet, and will be available in four color options: gold, rose gold, bright silver, and brushed black. The Legacy Collection (MSRP $895) features an elegant heritage-style watch design showcasing the Americhron 7A20 automatic movement which is visible through the timepiece’s sapphire crystal exhibition caseback. The two-level dial is adorned with polished Roman numeral markers which match the finely polished bezel and 39mm case, and will be available in stainless steel, gold, and rose gold with a matching Jubilee bracelet, with either a black or white dial.

Several additional collections are in the pipeline, with different color dial options and features for both The Destiny Collection and The Legacy Collection to be available for purchase by the end of 2023. Every Lineage Watch Co timepiece is designed, engineered, tested, and built in the United States with a focus on quality, beauty, and design embodying the sophisticated and diverse culture of San Diego.

“Each watch is crafted with precision and attention to detail, using the highest quality materials to ensure that they will last for years to come,” said Brianna Edwards, President and CEO of Lineage. “As a black-owned business, it was significant to launch our Lineage Watches on Juneteenth to honor the sacrifice and rich history of African Americans. The name Lineage also speaks to our past and to the future of the company – knowing where we come from, who we are, and where we are going. The North Star in our logo and design is a nod to not only stylish aspects of the watches and brand, but to the notion that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, has their own true North and can define their own legacy.”

combinations, centered around key pieces that embody timeless appeal deliberately designed to make a statement. The intentional blending of hues creates a seamless transition from the vibrant energy of Summer and the muted tones of Fall, making it the ideal assortment for the in-between seasons.

“Ryan Destiny’s creative vision combined with Pacsun’s commitment to quality and style has resulted in a collection that captures the essence of 90s fashion while incorporating contemporary elements,” said Abbie Hutzler, Women’s Buying Director at Pacsun. “With 90s nostalgia currently trending among our consumers, and this drop is set to resonate and captivate the Pac Community.”

The Ryan Destiny Summer Collection is now available at Pacsun.com and select Pacsun stores nationwide. With prices ranging from $24.00 to $70.00 and inclusive sizes XS to XL, this highly-anticipated collection showcases the unique style and spirit that both Destiny and Pacsun represent.

“My sister and I have always loved watches and appreciate a good design with quality materials. American-built movements are now making their way back into the industry, so we decided to create our own brand that customers can feel confident purchasing from,” said co-founder and Executive Vice President Evan Edwards. “Our goal is to create products that exceed what is available at this price point in today’s market and deliver a high-quality timepiece that is built with skill and purpose.”

Lineage Watch Co is committed to partnering with companies who utilize U.S.-sourced materials and American labor, to help broaden the footprint of American manufacturing while contributing to important initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion within the watch industry. Lineage Watch Co is also proud to contribute a substantial portion of its sales to non-profit organizations and efforts serving American communities. For instance, as a proud supporter of No Kid Hungry, Lineage pledges five percent (5%) of the gross sales of The Destiny Collection and The Legacy Collection to the organization to assist its efforts in combating childhood hunger in America.

Lineage Watches are now available for purchase at www. lineagewatchco.com where customers can choose from a diverse range of designs and styles that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Each watch comes with a two (2) year warranty, after-service care for repairs if ever needed (as each watch and movement are fully serviceable), and free battery replacements on all quartz movements.

Higher Heights and the Center for American Women and Politics Release Black Women in American Politics 2023

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- Higher Heights Leadership Fund and the Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP), a unit of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University, released the latest version of the report, Black Women in American Politics 2023.

For nearly a decade, Higher Heights and the Center for American Women and Politics have teamed up to report on the status of Black women in American politics. In that period, Black women have seen representational gains across all levels of office, including in the federal executive, and achieved milestones as candidates and officeholders within states and nationwide.

The 2022 election illuminated these realities. Record numbers of Black women ran for congressional and statewide elective executive offices and, as a result of the election, a record number of Black women now serve in Congress, in statewide elective executive office, and in state legislatures. Still, despite a record number of Black women running for and winning major-party nominations for the U.S. Senate and governor in 2022, last year’s election did not remedy the lack of Black women’s representation at either level.

Higher Heights and the Center for American Women and Politics Release Black Women in American Politics 2023

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This report provides a foundation for this work, offering an overview of Black women’s political representation today and over the past decade, as well as indicators of how Black women fared in the most recent election.

The report illustrates:

A record number of Black women serve in congressional, statewide elective executive, and state legislative offices, as well as in the presidential cabinet, in 2023, with important gains made and milestones achieved over the past decade. Since 2020, Black women have ascended to the

vice presidency and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Still, despite being 7.7% of the population, Black women are less than 6% of officeholders in Congress, statewide elective executive offices, and state legislatures. They are eight of the mayors in the nation’s 100 most populous cities.

A record number of Black women ran for the U.S. House, U.S. Senate, and statewide elective executive offices – including governor – in 2022, and a record number of Black women were nominees for the U.S. Senate, statewide executive offices, and governor. These candidacies translated into record-level officeholding at multiple levels, but no Black women serve in the U.S. Senate today and no Black woman has ever served as governor.

Between 2022 and 2023, Black women’s state legislative representation remained nearly equal – achieving a new high but by just three seats – though a record number of Black women currently lead state legislative chambers.

Black women won big-city mayoral elections in Los Angeles, California and North Las Vegas, Nevada in 2022, and a Black woman is poised to be elected mayor of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in November 2023.

“In 2022 we were able to celebrate many historic wins by Black women running for federal, statewide office, and mayors of the top 100 cities. However, as with all history-making moments, not every goal aimed for during the election was achieved, and we felt the deep loss of the hardfought campaigns with efforts to elect a Black woman to the U.S. Senate and as this nation’s first Black woman governor,” said Glynda C. Carr, President, and CEO of Higher Heights. “But make no mistake, Black women’s energy, work, and commitment to building a true democracy is continuing to diversify and improve America’s leadership. We will continue to strive in 2023 and in 2024 to diversify and improve America’s leadership to include the presence of diverse perspectives at every level of government.”

Higher Heights and CAWP issued their first report on the status of Black women in American politics in June 2014. Since then, 24 new Black women were elected to Congress, the number of Black women state legislators has risen by over 50%, Black women have made tremendous strides in representation as big-city mayors – with 15 Black women taking office as mayors in the top 100 most populous cities since mid-2014 – and a Black woman now serves as vice president.

“For nearly a decade, our reports on the status of Black women in U.S. politics have illustrated both the progress made and the persistent underrepresentation for Black women across levels of office,” said report author Kelly Dittmar, Director of Research at CAWP and Associate Professor of Political Science at Rutgers University-Camden. “These data are necessary to guide the interventions necessary to ensure continued growth in Black women’s political representation and power.”

Headquartered in New York, NY, Higher Heights Leadership Fund, a 501(c)(3) organization, and its sister organization Higher Heights for America, a national 501(c)(4) organization is investing in a long-term strategy to analyze, expand and support a Black women’s leadership pipeline at all levels and strengthen their civic participation beyond just Election Day http://www.higherheightsleadershipfund.org/.

The Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP), a unit of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is nationally recognized as the leading source of scholarly research and current data about women’s political participation in the United States. Its mission is to promote greater knowledge and understanding about the role of women in American politics, enhance women’s influence in public life, and expand the diversity of women in politics and government. http://www.cawp. rutgers.edu/.

The HBCU Founders Initiative Selects 5 Additional Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to Its Pre-Accelerator Program Designed to Scale Entrepreneurial Education

SAN FRANCISCO, PRNewswire -- The HBCU Founders Initiative (HBCUFI), a nonprofit organization that supports HBCU students and alumni along their entrepreneurial journey, has announced that it has selected five additional HBCUs to join its Pre-Accelerator program, which is in place to provide specialized support to students and alumni exploring entrepreneurship and the launch of tech-fueled ventures across HBCU campuses.

Over 750 students and alumni from 80+ HBCUs have benefitted from HBCUFI’s programming with participants raising over $2M for their startups.

The five new HBCUs on-boarding into HBCUFI’s Pre-Accelerator program include Hampton University, Morehouse College, Texas Southern University, Benedict College, and Bethune-Cookman University.

These institutions will join HBCUFI’s Fall 2022 inaugural cohort of seven partner HBCUs that include Bowie State University, Elizabeth City State University, Morgan State University, North Carolina A&T University, Oakwood University, Prairie View A&M University, and Spelman College.

This brings HBCUFI’s total number of HBCU campus-based cohorts to 12 institutions, with a growing waitlist of schools ready to partner. Prior to launching its inaugural cohort of 7 partner HBCUs in 2022, HBCUFI worked with HBCU students and alumni interested in entrepreneurship through its virtual programming offerings.

“HBCUFI is the missing piece of our entrepreneurial community-building package at Benedict College,” Dr. Tracy Harrell Dunn, Dean of Benedict College’s Burroughs School of Business and Entrepreneurship, and Aaron Taylor, Program Coordinator of Benedict’s B.E.S.T. Innovation Lab said. “Despite the B.E.S.T Lab’s remarkable progress, we were missing a Pre-Accelerator experience for our student entrepreneurs that would enable our potential student founders to launch ventures in this competitive market confidentially. With HBCUFI, we have that now.” While HBCUFI programming is open to students and alumni from the nation’s 100+ HBCUs, the decision to develop direct partnerships with HBCUs allows HBCUFI to further connect with the on-campus ecosystem at HBCUs and host in-person entrepreneurship programs with partnered institutions.

“We are pleased to have 5 additional HBCUs join us in fulfilling our mission to ensure that innovative ideas don’t die on the vine because there is no one available to cultivate them,” said HBCUFI President, Marlon Evans. “By providing a structured program that connects our participants with executives and entrepreneurs with deep experience building companies, coupled with providing access to preseed funding, HBCUFI is helping to build an unprecedented innovation ecosystem on HBCU campuses.”

Support from organizations committed to diversity and inclusion has been core to HBCUFI’s success. Organizations supporting HBCUFI for its third year include UNCF,

AARP, Principal Foundation, Blackstone LaunchPad, UNC Eshelman Institute for Innovation, Costco, Chase for Business, Vistra Corp., Cooley, and the Techstars Foundation.

“Working with HBCUFI has proven to be highly advantageous for our organization,” Martin Booker, Program Manager, Financial Resilience Programming at AARP said. “It has provided us with a valuable opportunity to bring our staff together, fostering connections with HBCU student founders and enabling us to offer mentorship opportunities. The program not only brings enjoyment but also serves as a source of inspiration, witnessing numerous motivated college students who are actively establishing their own businesses.”

For the program, each of the 12 partner HBCUs will host two, eight-week Pre-Accelerators (one in the fall and one in the spring) in support of up to eight startups per cohort; all of which are comprised of early-stage founders who are past the ideation stage and ready to validate a problem and build an MVP.

Each Pre-Accelerator program will cover topics such as validating the idea, building a prototype, customer discovery, marketing and branding, legal operations, and fundraising and will be presented in weekly virtual cohort sessions with on-campus activities also planned. The program will culminate in a pitch competition where participants will be eligible to receive non-dilutive program awards in support of MVP development.

Applications for the Fall 2023 Pre-Accelerator program will open on July 1st and will close on August 6th.

To learn more and to apply, visit: https://www.hbcufi. org/pre-accelerator

TRAVEL

Find Adventure and Fun in The Natural State

(StatePoint) Love hiking in the great outdoors? Enjoy authentic, local cuisine? Get a thrill hurtling down mountain biking trails? Whatever sort of adventure you’re craving, Arkansas, also known as “The Natural State,” is a great destination to consider.

“With wide-open landscapes, an abundance of natural resources, and friendly hospitality, an Arkansas trip is unlike any other,” says Shealyn Sowers, chief of communications, Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.

As Sowers points out, Arkansas is known as The Natural State for a reason. Hiking, floating, fishing, hunting and cycling are just a few of the many outdoor activity options available, along with golf, ATVing and even hang gliding. You can even take a backcountry aviation adventure and literally camp next door to your plane.

Arkansas is home to some of the best mountain biking trails on the planet, not to mention the first national river (Buffalo National River) and the first unit in the National Park System (Hot Springs National Park).

If your choice of adventure is more urban than outdoors, check out Bentonville, which is home to one of the finest American art museums in

(StatePoint) Plasma donation is an impactful, meaningful way to give back to your community this summer. By donating plasma, you can help people like Machelle Pecoraro.

Pecoraro lives with Hereditary Angioedema (HAE), a rare disease that can cause attacks of swelling, and often pain, in specific parts of the body, including the stomach, hands, feet, arms, legs, genitals, throat and face. Like with many serious and rare diseases, the therapies used to treat HAE require human plasma donations.

Donors’ Impact

“Plasma donors directly impact my ability to live a full and productive life. Therapies made from these donations allow me and my son, who also lives with HAE, to receive ongoing treatment for our conditions,” says Pecoraro.

Plasma, a straw-colored liquid that carries red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, helps to main-

the nation, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The capital city of Little Rock offers art and museums, along with unique dining and cultural experiences. New this year, the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts recently reopened in Little Rock following an almost four-year renovation and

reimagining. The museum’s art collection spans the 1300s to present day, with 14,000 works.

What else does Arkansas offer?

You can dig for diamonds and keep what you find at Crater of Diamonds

State Park in Murfreesboro.

Tour one of only two purse museums in the world at ESSE Purse Museum in Little Rock.

And enjoy James Beard Award-winning cuisine at Jones Bar-B-Q Diner

Donate Plasma to Save Lives this Summer

tain a steady level of blood pressure, supports the immune system and delivers critical nutrients to cells.

Plasma donations are used to replace crucial proteins people living with rare and serious diseases lack, and to produce therapies that treat diseases such as primary immune deficiencies, hereditary angioedema, hemophilia, Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency and various bleeding and neurological disorders.

There is a critical and ongoing need for plasma donations, as these life-saving medicines treat people in more than 100 countries around the world. Every year, it takes more than 1,200 plasma donations to treat one hemophilia patient, more than 900 plasma donations to treat one alpha-1 patient and more than 130 plasma donations to treat one primary immune deficiency patient.

“Plasma donors do the amazing, as plasma is used to develop life-saving therapies for people living with rare and serious diseases. We encourage those who can donate to visit a nearby CSL Plasma donation center,” says Rachpal Malhotra, MD, head of plasma donor safety, CSL Plasma.

Eligible, qualified plasma donors also receive payments in connection with donating plasma.

The Donation Process

To donate, you must be in good health, between the ages of 18-74, weigh at least 110 pounds, and have had no tattoos or piercings within the last four months. You must also meet the health and screening requirements and have valid identification with a permanent address.

Although wait times may vary at each location, the collection process takes approximately 90 minutes after the first donation.

It is recommended that you drink four to six 8-ounce glasses of water, fruit juice or other caffeine-free liquid at least two to three hours before donation, avoid caffeinated beverages, avoid alcohol of any type for 24 hours beforehand, eat a meal prior to donation and get adequate sleep.

CSL Plasma has 320 plasma donation centers across the United States. Visit cslplasma.com for more information and to find a center near you. The CSL Plasma donor app is

in Marianna and Lassis Inn in Little Rock.

Arkansas also celebrates its native sons Johnny Cash and Bill Clinton, and you can visit sites that recognize their contributions to American culture and history. In Dyess, tour the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home and in Little Rock, explore the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum.

You’ll also find plenty of inexpensive family activities, including in Arkansas State Parks, which are completely free to enter. This year marks the 100year anniversary of the founding of Arkansas State Parks, and you can find activities and events commemorating the occasion throughout the year. Pick up your free passport at an Arkansas State Park visitor center and begin recording your travels. All 52 state parks are free to enter and offer diverse experiences. Whether you're a history buff, love to hike, paddle, bike, wildlife watch, fish, kick back and relax, or all of the above, there is a state park for you.

For more trip ideas and inspiration, visit www.arkansas.com.

“There’s no doubt you’ll find plenty to do in The Natural State,” says Sowers. “We can’t wait to see you!”

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) CSL Plasma

PHOTO CAPTION: Plasma donations help people like Machelle Pecoraro live full, productive lives.

also available for Apple and Android device users.

“I thank all donors and encourage anyone who is considering

donating to remember that doing so does make an impact for people like me and my son,” says Pecoraro.

PHOTO SOURCE: Courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Tourism

Eshe Ukweli Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Solomon Hayes Morehouse CollegeNNPA Fellow

Brielle Smith Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Robertney Harlan Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Antonio Sweeney Morehouse CollegeNNPA Fellow

Jada

Marketing Fellow

Marketing Fellow

Marketing Fellow Janiya

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