Southern IL Equity Forum: Shaping Our Future Together

We are thrilled to invite you to the groundbreaking 3-hour public event "Southern IL Equity Forum: Shaping Our Future Together" at 10am on November 18, 2023 at East St. Louis High School Auditorium (East St. Louis School District 189). Hosted by The Illinois Juneteenth Committee, with special guests, the State of Illinois African Descent-Citizens Reparations Commission (ADCRC) in the Highschool Auditorium, located 4901 State St, East St Louis, IL 62205, USA.  Please RSVP by 11/17/2023, registration will close once capacity has been met.

Here's why you should be excited:

Your Voice Matters: Your ideas, your experiences, your stories – they are the heart and soul of this forum. Reparations are not just an abstract concept; they are deeply personal and rooted in real experiences. Your voice has the power to shape policies, initiatives, and the very future of your community.

A Historic Moment: This isn't just another public event; it's a historic moment in the fight for justice. We're here to address historical injustices, to acknowledge them, and to pave the way for meaningful change. Your participation makes you a part of history.

Community Unity: In the greater Southern IL/ Metroeast area, we are not just a community; we are a family. This forum is a chance for us to come together, to support each other, and to stand united against the inequalities that have plagued us for too long. Your presence is a symbol of solidarity.

Be the Change: Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Be the change that you wish to see in the world." By attending and actively participating in this forum, you are embodying that spirit. You have the power to influence the direction of change in your community.

A Path to Equity: Reparations are not just about redressing the past; they are about building a brighter future. Your ideas will contribute to shaping policies that promote economic empowerment, education, healthcare, and community development – all critical components of a more equitable Illinois.

Empowerment and Healing: Sharing your stories and experiences can be a powerful form of healing and empowerment. By doing so, you inspire others to do the same and help create an atmosphere of understanding and empathy.

Remember, we're not just shaping policy; we're shaping our shared future. This forum is about us, for us, and by us. Your presence and participation are a testament to your commitment to making a positive change in our community.

So, get excited! Be ready to share, to listen, to learn, and to be a part of something much larger than ourselves. Your ideas and stories are the keys to unlocking a brighter, more equitable future for Illinois.

Please take the following steps to show your support and provide input on behalf of your organization:

1. Register for the event "Southern IL Equity Forum: Shaping Our Future Together":
2. Pledge Support on the ADCRC website: https://adcrc.illinois.gov/pledge-of-support.html 
3. Provide Input on the ADCRC website: https://adcrc.illinois.gov/public-engagement.html
4. Spread the word to your network and  membership
5. We look forward to seeing you at the kickoff event "Southern IL Equity Forum: Shaping Our Future Together!”
6. To attend virtually, Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUvfuqsrzMoHd319p2LsAHabUhzCJcSVgnH 
7. To connect with IL Juneteenth Committee: https://forms.gle/kuo5mj1LQN8PdETVA
8. Questions? staylor@iljuneteenthcommittee.org