by Joseph Omoremi
CHICAGO, IL A combination of programs lined up to turn around the lives of recent Blacks in Chicago and across Illinois is imminent and an “Immigration Task Force” topped the lists according to Third Ward Alderman Pat Dowell.
“We have a new immigration committee now and we are meeting on Monday, May 22, 2023 unlike the previous committee that never met,” she said and urged the African community to stand up for their rights and make them accountable.
“It is important you engage us” she said while speaking at the seminar on “Reimagining Black Empowerment in Illinois” organized by United African Organization.
She lamented the inactive City of Chicago Assistant Programs which she said they tried to revive unsuccessfully along with the African Mission but promised a positive change soon.
Congressman Jonathan Jackson hinted of an investment in Africa program coming up in summer and encouraged UAO members to be part of it.
“Trade agreements that promotes growth in Africa” is what the African continent need and not exploitation and shortchanging the Black continent.
He said African interests must be recognized and honored for the goodness of all in Chicago and across the country stressing “since Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable founded Chicago, we have been on the receiving end to the extend that he had to be buried in Missouri,” Congressman Jackson said.
The chairman of African Global Chamber of Commerce Olivier Kamanzi urged Blacks in Chicago to end their divisiveness and “claim our roots back” adding Africa is the root of humanity.
He lamented why there was no teaching of Africa history in Chicago public schools and encouraged Blacks to come together whether you are African Americans, Jamaican Americans or Asian Black.
Until then “we will not be entitled to the privileges available to whites,” said Antonio Lightfoot of the Workers center for Racial Justice (WCRJ).
Besides a united front, Tanya Woods of the Westside Justice Center also urged the Black community to learn to keep elected leaders accountable.
“Collaboration and accountability are important but “we must replace the lack mentality with abundance and prosperity by sharing information on institutions and resources needed for our growth,” she said.
