[Communications] Tune in to District 5's Febuary Updates

Wed Feb 5 11:23:13 CST 2025

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Dear Neighbor,
*Happy Black History Month!*

I hope this message finds you in great health and high spirits as we celebrate Black History Month — a time to reflect, honor, and amplify the stories and contributions of Black Americans who have shaped our nation’s past, present, and future. 

I’m proud to be representing you in Springfield during this crucial legislative session. Our work is just beginning, and we have a busy agenda ahead to continue making a positive impact for the communities we serve. From pushing for policies that strengthen our economy to advocating for the rights and opportunities of all Illinoisans, I am committed to ensuring that your voices are heard at the state level.

**Your Voice Matters.**As we continue to work on critical legislation, it’s essential that we stay connected and hear directly from you, our community. Your input is invaluable in guiding the direction of our efforts and ensuring that we address the issues that matter most. In this newsletter, we’ve included a Policy Input Survey to give you the opportunity to share your thoughts and feedback on the policies you want to see prioritized. Your voice truly shapes the future of our state.

**Community Event: Celebrating Black History at DuSable Museum**
I’m thrilled to invite you to a special public event we are hosting on February 21st at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center in Chicago. This event will offer an opportunity to explore the museum’s incredible exhibits, which celebrate Black history in profound and meaningful ways. Following the museum visit, we’ll be hosting a screening of a powerful documentary on one of the primary civil rights leaders who helped shape the landscape of freedom and justice we know today.

This is a great opportunity to engage with history, connect with your community, and honor the heroes who paved the way for us. I look forward to seeing many of you there!

**Upcoming Lecture: George E. Kent Lecture featuring Philonise Floyd**
I also want to make sure you don’t miss the George E. Kent Lecture on February 6th, where we will have the honor of hearing from Philonise Floyd, the brother of George Floyd and a civil rights activist. Philonise’s work continues to inspire, as he uses his platform to advocate for justice and equality for all. This lecture promises to be an important and powerful conversation, so please join us if you can.

As always, thank you for entrusting me with the honor of representing you. Let’s continue to work together to make our communities stronger, safer, and more prosperous for all. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office with any questions, concerns, or suggestions. Together, we can make a difference.
Wishing you a wonderful and meaningful Black History Month.

Illinois Black Cacus Event
--------------------------

The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation is hosting its annual Black History Month Soirée, themed "ENDGAME: Relentless Power," on February 19, 2025, at the new Bank of Springfield Center venue. This in-person event celebrates African-American heritage while addressing ongoing systemic challenges. Proceeds will support ILBCF initiatives such as scholarships, a fellowship program, and expanded outreach efforts. Multiple sponsorship packages, ranging from $1,500 to $15,000, offer various benefits including logo placement, VIP seating, event acknowledgments, and opportunities for presentations. Interested sponsors are invited to email info at ilbcf.org with "2025 Soiree Sponsorship" in the subject line.

**🎉✨ Voices of the Past, Power of Today ✨🎉**

Join us for a night of history, inspiration, and celebration at the DuSable Black History Museum on 2/21 from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM! 🖤

Explore the powerful exhibits, enjoy a light reception, and experience an exciting documentary screening honoring one of the most impactful civil rights leaders. More details on the film coming soon, but trust us — you won’t want to miss it! 🎥

🖋️ Registration required — scan the QR code on the flyer or sign up here: [https://aa1n4.r.ag.d.sendibm3.com/mk/cl/f/sh/SMK1E8tHeFuBlzqgiycYjkFrLpq9/O8yeT1Fz-7OO](https://bit.ly/3Q5ZwIa)

See you there! 🙌 #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackExcellence #DuSableMuseum #VoicesOfThePast #PowerOfToday #CivilRights #HistoryInTheMaking #CelebrateBlackHistory

Interested in becoming a firefighter? Join the Chicago Fire Department Career Prep Courses for a $40 fee every Thursday from 03/06/25 - 05/01/25 at 5:30-7:30 at Harvey College

RSVP for the George E. Kent Lecture featuring Philonise Flyod
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On February 6th from 6:00-7:30PM located at 1414 E 59th Street 

[ RSVP LINK](https://aa1n4.r.ag.d.sendibm3.com/mk/cl/f/sh/SMK1E8tHeG13E8fdu8m2pZYbK8QP/Pxma628JKPGq)

Policy Suggestions?
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Do you have policy or legislation you would like to see pushed by the representative? Fill out our link here!

[ Call to action](https://aa1n4.r.ag.d.sendibm3.com/mk/cl/f/sh/SMK1E8tHeG7ugHUb5IvWvOrLIR0f/9z6CmYAsR4zn)

Have an Event?
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If your organization has events around the district you would like us to mention in our newsletter fill out the link below!

[ Event Form](https://aa1n4.r.ag.d.sendibm3.com/mk/cl/f/sh/SMK1E8tHeGEm8QJYGT511EA5Gjav/cSUk7HPZAdqX "Event Form")

MORE UPDATES
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**Public Safety & Community Awareness**
With the deactivation of ShotSpotter, community involvement in public safety is more important than ever. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity by calling 911 and using community policing initiatives. Additionally, new updates to Chicago’s Hate Crime Ordinance now include streamlined reporting processes for hate incidents and graffiti removal.

**Infrastructure & Development Updates**
Ongoing public infrastructure improvements continue across the 3rd Ward, including street resurfacing, pedestrian safety enhancements, and traffic calming projects. The newly completed Bronzeville Microgrid will also provide reliable solar-powered energy to the community, ensuring long-term sustainability.

**Youth & Education Initiatives**
Several educational opportunities are open this month for students across Chicago. The Collegiate Scholars Program is accepting applications until February 7, helping high-achieving CPS students prepare for college. Additionally, Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day on February 20 will connect young women with STEM professionals for hands-on learning experiences.

**Small Business & Workforce Development**
Congratulations to this year’s Wells Fargo Small Business Grant Winners and the Community Growers Program recipients who are using grant funding to improve food access and local economic development. These programs continue to support small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community agriculture in neighborhoods across the city.

**Winter Safety & Community Resources**
As winter continues, residents are reminded to take precautions against freezing pipes by insulating them and maintaining home heating. Additionally, Chicago’s tree recycling program runs through early February, providing an eco-friendly way to dispose of holiday trees.

**FREE MENTAL HEALTH THERAPIST**

If you or a loved on in the city is struggling with mental health call 312-747-1020 to schedule an appointment with Chicago's free therapists program. 4th Ward residents may also stop into the King Center at 43rd & Cottage Grove

to schedule an appointment.

CHICAGO URBAN LEAGUE EVENTS
---------------------------

**Tax Tuesday**

Tired of tax-season stress? Join Tax Tuesday to simplify tax planning, minimize liabilities, and maximize your savings. Get expert insights to help you achieve your financial goals.

February 4, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Virtual &
February 18, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4510 S. Michigan Ave

**Essential Skills for Professionalism Conference**

Transform your career with essential skills that employers value. Attendees will receive $50 upon completing the conference.

February 11 & 13th, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 4510 S. Michigan Ave

**Love & Homeownership: A Valentine’s Home Buying Event**

Thinking about buying a home with your partner? Join this special Valentine’s-themed home buying workshop. Learn financial literacy, get expert guidance, and take the next step toward homeownership. This is a free event.

February 15, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Shine Bright Community Center at Discover, 8560 S. Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60619

**Job Search Café**

Kickstart your career at the Job Search Café. Connect with professionals, explore job opportunities, and gain valuable insights in a supportive environment.

February 19, 2025 | 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM | 4510 S. Michigan Ave

**Professional Elevation Life Skills Training**

A 5-day training program covering career mapping, resume building, interviewing, networking, customer service, and more. Transportation provided. Earn $50 upon completion. Ages 18–26.

February 24–28, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | 4510 S. Michigan Ave

**Black-Owned Business Hiring Fair**

Are you a Black-owned business looking to hire? Join the Chicago Urban League’s Hiring Fair to connect with top talent in the community. This free event offers onsite interviews, networking opportunities, and complimentary food for participating employers.

February 25, 2025 | 4510 S. Michigan Ave

####Representative Kimberly DuBuclet
5048 S Indiana Ave, Chicago, IL 60615

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