Standing With Springfield’s Trans Community

Yesterday, several of my House colleagues from the self-described “Freedom Caucus” held a press conference to misrepresent and demagogue the policy of the Springfield YMCA that allows all members to use the changing areas consistent with their gender identity. Worse still, these members cowered behind a teen they claimed was harmed by this policy, even though the teen has acknowledged being uncomfortable in the changing area, even while acknowledging that she never witnessed any male genitalia in the changing room despite irresponsible reports to the contrary.

Illinois law requires that everyone in our state is allowed to use the restroom and changing room consistent with their gender identity. The YMCA is following that law – which some of my colleagues seem unwilling and unable to understand. This behavior is part of the on-going attacks staged by far-right extremists aiming to erase trans people from our communities. These performative acts too often result in violence perpetrated against our trans siblings. These events are designed to whip up hatred and fear, unleashing the attendees on community members.

It is appropriate that the YMCA has created private changing areas that everyone who uses the facility can utilize in order to make full use of the facility. That is the best way to ensure inclusion – not by barring others from using the facility. Responsible elected officials should encourage this inclusion, not engage in divisive and hyperbolic remarks aimed at stigmatizing the trans members of our community.

Regarding the allegation of a “very manly looking woman in a woman’s bathing suit”, this young woman, her family, and the so-called leaders who elevated her story have no idea whether there was a trans person in the locker room. Would they demand that the woman submit some sort of proof that she belongs in the locker room? What would that entail? If you’re in a bathing suit, chances are you don’t have a government-issued ID or birth certificate handy, so are my proud colleagues suggesting a physical assault to evaluate everyone’s genitalia in the locker room? If so, they’re advocating sexual assault. As someone who was confronted in women’s bathrooms over the years when I had short hair, I can attest to how frightening and violating that is. My spouse is regularly harassed in restrooms due to their butch presentation.

A better plan is for folks to mind their business, do what what you are in the locker room or bathroom to do, and leave your neighbors alone. Instead, six of my colleagues have put an entire community in danger and sent a hateful message to trans youth in our entire state. My friend Rep. Zooey Zephyr said it best right before she was expelled from the chamber of the Montana House for arguing for the basic humanity of trans people: these men have blood on their hands. The blood spilled when the people they whip into a frenzy harm someone and the blood of youth are more than 50% more likely to attempt suicide or self-harm.

Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth's Broadway Armory Update

Statement from Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth

Important Community Briefing on New Arrivals: Weds, July 19

Over the last couple of days, there have been developments regarding our city's response to new arrivals, and the city is having an important community briefing for the 48th ward and neighboring communities to share these updates. This briefing will be held over Zoom at 3 pm on Wednesday, July 19. This briefing will be in addition to the in-person community meeting planned for July 27th at the Broadway Armory Park.

Please RSVP here for the Wednesday, July 19 briefing. To avoid technical difficulties, be sure to register ahead of time.

RSVP information for the in-person forum on July 27 will be coming soon.

Neighborhood Shoutouts

Representative Cassidy's Weekly Neighborhood Office Hours

Our office will be hosting weekly neighborhood office hours to help connect constituents with resources and assistance. The office hours will take place every Friday, unless notified, from 10 am to 2 pm, in the Betty A. Barclay Community Room at the Edgewater Library, 6000 N. Broadway.

In the District

Jarvis Square Artisan Market

Mayor's 2024 Budget Roundtables

Mayor Brandon Johnson and his team is inviting our community to come out and participate in the community engagement process for this year's budget.

Please join the City at one of the three roundtables to hear an overview of the budget and share your insights and ask questions about the City's budget. Doors open an hour before the forums for a City Resource Fair where representatives from the City's departments and sister agencies will be available to answer questions and provide information on City services sand programs. The Budget Community Engagement Roundtables will be live-streamed on the City of Chicago's social media channels.

BUDGET ENGAGEMENT ROUNDTABLE I

Tuesday, July 18 | 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Malcolm X College

1900 West Jackson Boulevard

BUDGET ENGAGEMENT ROUNDTABLE II

Thursday, July 20 | 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Kennedy-King College

6301 South Halsted Street

ROUNDTABLE III

Saturday, July 22 | 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Harry S. Truman College

1145 West Wilson Avenue

CPS School Supply Drive

Our office is collecting school supplies for CPS students. A list of desired school supplies can be found here. School supply donations can be made at the three following locations:

District Office (1507 W. Morse) Tues-Thurs 9am-5pm
Women & Children First (5233 N. Clark) Tues-Sun 11am-6pm
R Public House (1508 W. Jarvis) Mon-Thurs 3pm-10pm; Friday 3pm-12am; Saturday & Sunday 10am-12am

School Supply List: https://bit.ly/CPSList24

Truckin' On Jarvis Event

When: Sat, July 15th, 2 - 10pm

Where: Jarvis Square, Between Greenview and the Jarvis Red Line station

Come out to the Square this weekend. Listen to exceptional local live music. Visit the shakedown market. Drink some local beer, much on local food. Enjoy spending time with friends and family in the community.

This event is free.

Andersonville Sidewalk Sale

The Andersonville Sidewalk Sale is upon us! From Friday, July 29th to Sunday, July 31, over 30 Andersonville neighborhood businesses will be offering deals, discounts, and promos for you to peruse. Make your way from 4800 N Clark to 5800 N Clark and find something for everyone (or just for yourself!)

For more information, click here.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

Calling all artists!

Andersonville Arts Weekend is back from Friday September 29 - Sun Oct 1 and is now accepting applications for artists that would like a chance to present their work all weekend throughout Andersonville.

You can find the application here.

Whether you specialize in painting, photography, mixed media, puppeteering, sculpting, or any other form of artistic expression, this is your chance to shine! This three-day extravaganza promises to captivate art enthusiasts, locals, and visitors alike.

Located in the heart of Andersonville, arts weekend provides a supportive platform for artists to exhibit their work, gain exposure, and build meaningful connections within the creative community.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to showcase your creativity, inspire others, and potentially make sales! The Andersonville Arts Weekend attracts a wide range of art enthusiasts, collectors, eager to discover new talent.

Edgewater Historical Society Walking Tours

The walking tours are back, and now is the time to sign up by going to www.EdgewaterHistory.org. They are allowing up to 20 participants on each tour. Masks are recommended, but optional.

Here is the schedule of walking tours of the Edgewater neighborhood as of 6/14/23. The fee for each tour is $15. The schedule is subject to change. The link to register is bit.ly/ehswalk9.

Here are descriptions of walking tours and their scheduled dates/times:

Surprising Broadway: This tour of the main business area of Edgewater has many surprises because it features several of the significant Motor Row buildings and a collection of two-flats built before the street was designated commercial. This tour captures a moment in Edgewater history when homes and businesses were side by side. The walk begins at St. Ita Catholic Church, on Broadway and Catalpa, and ends at Broadway and Rosedale, near the Broadway Armory.

DATE: July 16, 2023; TIME: 1:00 p.m.

Discover the Art Underfoot: This is a unique exploration of the hidden artwork along Edgewater’s lakefront. Join Edgewater’s Bill Swislow in the walk along the shore. The tour begins at the foot of the pier at Kathy Osterman Beach (Hollywood Avenue Breakwater).

DATE: July 22, 2023; TIME: 11:00 a.m.

Community Events in the Jarvis Square Alfresco

The Jarvis Square Alfresco is planning a variety of community events this summer. Make sure to mark your calendars for all these incredible events!

The Jarvis Square Alfresco is located just steps off the Jarvis Square Red Line station in the 1500 block of Jarvis Avenue. Have an idea for a free event you want to host? Email the Rogers Park Business Alliance at info@rpba.org to book the space!

Glenwood Avenue Tea Dance and Art Market

When: Starts Sun, July 16th starting at 3pm

Where: Glenwood Bar, 6962 N. Glenwood Ave.

Let loose with a curated selection of DJs and artists that create the perfect ambiance to dance the night away.

Purchase any art piece and receive 2 MCA passes.

Sip on $5 Bloody Mary's and mimosas all afternoon and evening.

More information he re.

Glenwood Sunday Market

The Glenwood Sunday Market is back! From every Sunday now until October 29, the market is devoted to bringing local, sustainable foods that are also organic whenever possible to the Rogers Park community. Sunday's are the perfect time to pick up all your essential party, picnic, or just grocery needs at the market.

More information can be found here.

Monday Market

Edgewater's Monday Market is back! From 3-7pm every Monday until September 25th, the Market offers an expansive assortment of produce and goods, while emphasizing the vibrant connection between those in the Edgewater community.

Monday Market is an exciting opportunity to support local vendors and engage with other Edgewater residents in a welcoming and lively environment. Monday Market is located in The Broadway Armory at 5917 N Broadway. More information on Monday Market and a list of vendors can be found at https://www.edgewater.org/programs/farmers-market/.

Andersonville Farmers Market

The Andersonville Farmers Market runs from May 10-September 18th, every Wednesday from 3pm-7pm on Catalpa Avenue, between Clark and Ashland. Come support our local vendors!

Free Concerts at Edgewater Historical Society

Join your neighbors again this year, on warm summer nights, for our popular community program of free live performances. From July 12 to August 23, 2023, every Wednesday evening from 6 to 8 p.m., different local musicians will entertain you in the beautiful EHS garden. Children and pet friendly! All are welcome. Click here for the 2023 schedule.

July Colvin Concert Series

Chicagoland talent will be performing all month long in the beautiful parlor of the historic Colvin House, located at 5940 N. Sheridan Road.

Tues, July 18: Los Perros Cubanos

Tues, July 25: Radium Swing Band

While RSVP is free, there is a suggested donation that goes toward paying the musicians and staff for their efforts in producing these community concerts.

For more information, click here.

Taco Crawl 2023

Rogers Park is celebrating TACOS and all the Clark Street restaurants that serve the ultimate handheld delight that brings joy with every bite! Tacos are more than just food. They are a cultural icon. So, join us for an afternoon of tacos, tacos and más tacos.

Embark on a flavorful adventure with the Taco Crawl! Tickets are $20 in advance.

Choose from two tempting routes, each showcasing local culinary gems. Limited tickets will be available.

This will take place on July 20th from 3-7:00pm along Clark St. between Devon Ave. and Touhy Ave: rain or shine.

More information can be found here.

C24/7's Great Giveaway

C24/7's Great Giveaway was started a few years ago in honor of Nate (The Great) who passed away. This event is way to give back to the neighborhood with a day full of fun, laughter, and love. Almost 500 people came out with their kids last year. C24/7 is looking forward to brining the community together again this year on July 22! All are welcome, and volunteers, donations of funds, toys, food, and more are needed! Please visit c247fam.org/events to learn more and get involved!

24th District Police Blood Drive

Theatre Above the Law

When: Sun, July 30th 12 - 4pm

Where: Jarvis Square, between the Redline and Greenview

Join Theatre Above the Law at an all-ages carnival in Jarvis Square. The carnival will feature live music, fun booths and games for the whole family!

Admission to the event is FREE!

Tickets are available for the raffle, booths and carnival-style games. Enjoy rubber duck races, fortune telling, bozo buckets, dunk tank and more.

More information here.

Vote for Glenwood Sunday Market!

American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition are giving away $15K in prizes (and more!) to the nation’s favorite farmers markets. We know you love GSM, so show them your love by taking a minute and casting your vote. The deadline to vote is Sept 18, 2023.

Vote here!

Congresswoman Schakowsky's Weekly Neighborhood Office Hours

Congresswoman Schakowsky's office will be hosting weekly neighborhood office hours to help connect 9th District constituents with a variety of federal government resources. The office hours will take place every Friday, from 10 am to 2 pm, in the Betty A. Barclay Community Room at the Edgewater Library, 6000 N. Broadway.

Youth and Teens

Standing Tall Music Festival

Join Lake Shore Schools and Tiny Giants Early Learning Centers for a family-friendly music festival! On Saturday, July 22 from 11AM-1PM, Mr. Ray will take the stage and play your favorite songs! While at the festival, families can take part in activities and games, chat with their amazing staff members and learn more about some of their neighborhood friends such as, Gus Giordano Dance School, and Life's Sweet Inc.

Miss Mack's Summer Youth Dance Classes

Click here for more information.

Rogers Park Library Events

The Rogers Park Branch Library, 6907 N. Clark, offers a variety of events and programming for people of all ages, but especially for the little ones. Make sure to check out a list of their upcoming events and register to attend one. More information is available on its website here.

Empower Youth