This past week was busy, with the first ever Juneteenth celebration as a federal holiday. I have been celebrating Juneteenth privately with friends and family for years, so it was nice to finally be able to celebrate it outdoors with neighbors and community members as a state and federally recognized holiday.
Below, I've included some pictures from events I attended in celebration of Juneteenth, as well as a few graduations I spoke at. There is also information about some resources you can make use of. Keep reading for more.
Sincerely,
Mike Simmons
State Senator | 7th District
Senator Simmons in the District
Ravenswood Elementary Graduation
I spoke at a number of local graduation ceremonies, including Ravenswood Elementary. Ravenswood is one of the most diverse schools in Chicago, with a sizeable percentage of Latinx students. I'm proud to represent the school and its families!
During the graduation ceremonies, I spoke about how important it is to just be you, to be in touch with and accept who you are as a person and to embrace and honor your heritage and culture. Doing so is what made me into the person I am today, and I honored to have the opportunity so share this advice with youth from our community!
Juneteenth Voice of the People
Some of the most important resources that a person can take advantage of are ones offered by our neighbors. As your State Senator, I strive to have a positive, go-to attitude and always make myself available to you when you need assistance. It was an honor to meet with all of the great community leaders and advocates who do so much to support people who are struggling.
Juneteenth Black Lives Matter mural in Rogers Park
I joined a group of advocates to paint a Black Lives Matter mural on Paulina St. between Howard St. and Jonquil Terrace. This was a historic day for Rogers Park, and it was a privilege to stand with residents and community leaders to celebrate Juneteenth, Black joy, and Black heritage. I also want to give a special shout out to all of the amazing artists who spent hours painting the mural in 90-plus degree heat with no shade! Thank you so much for your dedication.
Upcoming Events
Crowning Our Kinks and Curls
RSVP here.
Town Hall with Rep. Kelly Cassidy
DCEO Driving Equity Webinar
Register here.
Lawrence Hall Healing Garden Unveiling
Pride North
We will be at Pride North this weekend. Be sure to come by! More information here.
Lincoln Square Farmers Market Reusable Bag Design Contest
Block Club Chicago is sponsoring a reusable bag design contest for artistic teens in the Chicago area. More details can be found here, and registration can be done here.
Farmers Markets
The Edgewater Famers Market has moved to Mondays throughout June in the Broadway Armory parking lot, 5917 N. Broadway. Sixteen local vendors will sell fruits and vegetables, fresh pastries, meats and a selection of prepared foods. More information here.
The Glenwood Sunday Market, located 1233-41 W. Pratt, is open on Sundays beginning June 6 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. More information here.
The Andersonville Farmers Market, located on Catalpa between Clark and Ashland, is open on Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. More information here.
Other Upcoming Events
Important Resources
Rental Assistance
Illinois Rental Payment Program opens to renters June 28
The Illinois Rental Payment Program offers up to $25,000 or 15 months of assistance to households in Illinois that are behind on rent due to pandemic-related job or wage losses. In order to qualify, tenants and housing providers must submit a joint application with proof of financial hardship as a direct or indirect result of the pandemic. The period for landlords to initiate an application is now closed, but renters can begin the application process starting Monday, June 28. Learn more here.
Mortgage Program
Need mortgage assistance? The City of Chicago’s Mortgage Assistance Program provides assistance to low-to moderate-income Chicago homeowners. The maximum grant available is $3,300, and the grant will go directly to your mortgage service. Learn more here!
Child Tax Credit
