A collaboration with WTTW
This issue about segregation in Chicago was produced in collaboration with WTTW’s award-winning FIRSTHAND multiplatform, multi-year initiative focusing on the firsthand perspectives of people facing critical issues in Chicago. The Weekly partnered with WTTW and the Invisible Institute to co-publish text, maps, and visual reporting and analysis covering the impact that racial divisions have had on individuals, the city, and the region. Visit wttw.com/firsthand to explore the elements of the project.
Bravo Southeast Side
After years of pushback and protests from activists and residents that included a hunger strike, on February 18 the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) denied the company formerly known as General Iron its permit application for a metal shredding facility to relocate to the Southeast Side. In a news release, CDPH announced that it “found the potential adverse changes in air quality and quality of life that would be caused by operations, and health vulnerabilities in the surrounding communities…present an unacceptable risk.”
Gender inclusivity at the Mexican consulate
The Mexican Consulate in Chicago can now amend birth certificates for transgender Mexican nationals living in the United States. The Mexican trans community is celebrating this gender-inclusive decision by the consulate. Prior to this decision, trans people had to travel to Mexico to request the changes to their birth certificate–a challenge for undocumented or underresourced immigrants–but now the process has been made accessible locally. People interested in amending their birth certificate can reach out to the Mexican Consulate in Chicago by emailing conchicago@sre.gob.mex or setting up an appointment by phone.
LSC election season
Applications to run for a Local School Council (LSC) in Chicago Public Schools (CPS) are due on March 4 at 3 p.m.! If you want to get more involved in your child’s school or neighborhood school–or if you’re a student or teacher hoping to bring change to your own school–running for its LSC is a hands-on way to do so. LSC member responsibilities include monitoring the school budget and improvement plan, as well as evaluating, hiring, and renewing the contract of the school’s principal. Members serve two-year terms, except for student representatives, who serve one year. In addition to the application, candidates must provide two forms of ID, including one with a residential address that’s within the attendance area of the school or voting district (for multi-area schools) for which they’re running. Parents and community members also have the option to present a candidate statement. Each LSC will host a candidate forum between March 21 and 25. Elections are April 20 and 21. Apply at bit.ly/35eDa2W.