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1. Chicagoans are ready to reimagine public safety

With Brandon Johnson’s election, Chicagoans rejected the tough-on-crime approach of Paul Vallas. In a March poll by Northwestern University’s Center for the Study of Diversity and Democracy, 63% of respondents said they supported the idea of decreasing police funding and investing in addressing root causes of crime. A post-election poll by GQR found that six out of ten respondents supported prevention methods over being tough on crime. Brandon Johnson has embraced ideas around reimagining public safety: making changes to the police budget, passing Treatment Not Trauma and Bring Chicago Home, co-governing with community-based organizations, and investing in people across the city.

2. Chicago to host Democratic National Convention

Chicago will host the 2024 Democratic National Convention. DNC Chairman Jaime Harrison joined a powerful grouping of local government officials at the lakefront by Museum Campus to make the exciting announcement. Chicago could receive up to 50,000 visitors and $200 million in economic benefits from the convention, and locals are hoping to emphasize the city’s status as pro-union and pro-labor.

3. Get trained on Nonviolent Direct Action

JCUA is holding our second ever training on Nonviolent Direct Action on Sunday, April 30 from 1-5pm.

This training will give JCUA members the theoretical background, skills, and grounding necessary to participate in non-violent direct action, including potential civil disobedience. Attending the training is not a commitment to join any action, but we hope that attendees will be open to taking action with JCUA and our coalition partners in the future.

We are asking everyone who attends to take a rapid Covid test before coming and wear a mask throughout the training. We hope to see you there.

4. Housing and Economic Justice Brunch

Do you have a personal stake in housing and economic justice issues? Join us for food and conversation on Sunday, April 30 at 11:30 am and stay for the Nonviolent Direct Action Training. Email Sam Rose, Housing Justice Fellow (sam@jcua.org) to RSVP.

5. Celebrate with us at Acts of Change

Each year, the JCUA community gathers for Acts of Change — a joyful spring evening full of lively music, festive spirits, community recognition, and celebration. Join us as we toast to our collective accomplishments and as we recommit to the work ahead!

Celebrate with us on Tuesday, June 6. Buy your tickets today.