Mayoral Debate on Reparations

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAYORAL CANDIDATES KICK OFF BLACK HISTORY MONTH BY SQUARING OFF OVER REPARATIONS, CURRENT RACIAL TENSIONS IN FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN FORUM Candidates tackle restitution and the State of Black America WHO: Nine (9) mayoral candidates, Reparations United President Kamm Howard, Evanston IL Reparations Leader Robin Rue Simmons, The National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations in America (N’COBRA)’s Joyce Scott plus Malcolm X College officials. Members of the City of Chicago’s Subcommittee on Reparations have been invited - Alderman Stephanie Coleman, Chair. Special guests Reverend Jesse Jackson and Former Illinois State Senate President Emil Jones, Jr. are expected to be on hand. Conrad Worrill Community Reparations Committee Representative La Kisha Latham will serve as host. WHAT: With Human Rights Icon Malcolm X and the start of Black History Month as an appropriate backdrop, the nine (9) candidates vying for Chicago’s Top Spot as Mayor, will participate in a spirited forum to discuss reparations, a black economic agenda and the State of Black America. WHEN: Thursday – February 2, 2023 | 2:00pm WHERE: Malcolm X College| City Colleges of Chicago |1900 W. Jackson, Chicago IL 60612 WHY: Each candidate will share their plan on reparations, their thoughts on the progress of the City of Chicago’s recently formulated Subcommittee on Reparations and its purpose, as well as the State of Black America including the recent tragic event surrounding the fatal Memphis, Tennessee beating of motorist Tyre Nichols. Hundreds (including City of College students) have confirmed to attend this critical discussion. Those interested can reserve their spot at reparationsforum.eventbrite.com. Space is limited. BACKGROUND: Voter turnout was low in Chicago during the Primary election on Tuesday, June 28, 2022. Data shows 549,197 registered voters in Chicago’s Black wards. Only 102,509 voted – a mere 18.6% turnout the lowest since 2014. Although, it still remains a significant voting block in this year’s election.