- Published: Tuesday, May 10, 2022 11:06 AM
Dear friend,
Spring weather is finally upon us, and I am excited to be in the district with the people I am honored to represent.
Over the next few months, the governor will be signing bills into law that were passed in the General Assembly during the spring legislative session. I look forward to seeing the implementation of measures promoting community investments, violence prevention, education and more.
Read on to learn more about resources for you, upcoming events and more.
As always, feel free reach out to my office for assistance by calling 773-278-2020, sending a text message to 773-207-7838, or sending us a note at www.senatorpacionezayas.com/contact-us.
Sincerely,
State Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas | 20th District
Community update
My statement on the leaked Roe v. Wade draft opinion
As the chilling news broke about a draft majority opinion to overturn the precedent of self-determination for generations of women and people assigned female at birth, I know many, including myself felt nothing short of devastated.
Reproductive rights and bodily autonomy are the most basic and fundamental human rights. This is not a drill, nor a test, nor a dress rehearsal—this moment is a rally cry and a defining time that draws a line in history. We have seen this all before, with the assault on Black lives, immigrants, Latinos, Asians, Native Americans, LGBTQ+ rights and disability rights…
Read my full statement on my website and watch a video of my remarks in a recent press conference below.
Conversation on standardized assessments
I had the honor of participating in a virtual discussion with the Illinois Federation of Teachers, Illinois Families for Public Schools and other stakeholders on the Illinois State Board of Education’s proposed changes to standardized testing in Illinois. During the event, I had the opportunity to discuss my legislation, the Too Young to Test Act, which is awaiting action by the governor. Check out the press conference and more information on the discussion here.
Washington D.C. trip to meet with lawmakers on Puerto Rican self-determination
I had a great time with my colleague State Senator Omar Aquino (D-Chicago) as we took to our nation’s capital to meet with other state leaders to rally for Puerto Rico’s self-determination. We met with Senator Dick Durbin as well as several members of the U.S. House of Representatives to discuss issues around Puerto Rican independence and the status of House Resolution 2070.
Additionally, read our op-ed as featured in the Chicago Tribune on a recent Supreme Court decision effecting federal aid to in Puerto Rico.
Parent Mentor Program meeting
I recently had the chance to attend a Parent Mentor meeting with the Northwest Center. We are grateful to have hundreds of parents who help support local schools through this program. We are thrilled that Parent Mentor Program in Illinois received $8 million in state funding to help them continue their mission! You can watch a stream of the meeting here.
Spring Open House at my district office
I had a great time mingling with members of our community and presenting our roundtable members with certificates of appreciation at last week’s Spring Open House at my district office!
Resources for you
Illinois Unidos school survey
Illinois Unidos and the Cicero Community Collaborative is working to identify needs and support that are offered at local school districts that serve Latino children. Take their survey here.
Chicago Resilient Communities Pilot Program
The City of Chicago is accepting applications for the Resilient Communities Pilot Program through May 13. Through this program, 5,000 Chicagoans will be selected through an open application and a citywide lottery to receive $500 per month for twelve months. Learn more and apply here.
One Summer Chicago offering youth jobs and internships
One Summer Chicago brings together government institutions, community-based organizations and companies to offer employment and internship opportunities to youth and young adults ages 14 to 24. Learn more and apply here.
Upcoming Events
May 14: Korean Children’s Day
Travel the globe without ever leaving Chicago, and celebrate Korean Children’s Day at Chicago Children’s Museums! Purchase tickets here.
May 21: Albany Park Community and Health Fair
Join us at River Park, 5100 N. Francisco Ave. on Saturday, May 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a community and health fair! Featuring health screenings, opportunities for housing and utility assistance, kids’ activities and more, this will be an event for the whole family.
June 3: Family Legal Aid Clinic
If you are in need of assistance regarding family legal aid, call 312-986-4105 and leave a voicemail to make an appointment for a legal aid clinic at my district office, 3140 W. Montrose, this Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
ICYMI: April Town Hall
I held my last scheduled town hall on April 21, offering a recap of the spring legislative session and topping off our discussions on violence prevention. Watch the town hall below.
