Senators collect valentines for older adults

Many older adults have been isolated from their loved ones for nearly a year due to the ongoing public health crisis. To show people living in long-term care facilities that people are thinking about them, a number of democratic senators are collecting Valentine’s Day card from their respective communities.

“Whether the cards are bought in a store or made from paper and markers, many older residents could use an extra reminder that they are cared for,” said State Senator John Connor (D-Lockport).

From now until Feb. 10, Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign), Senator John Connor (D-Lockport), Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon), Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs), Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) and Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) will be collecting store-bought and hand-made cards. The cards will then be donated to a number of long-term care facilities across the districts they represent.

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Lightford urges everyone to mask up

BROADVIEW - Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) released a video message urging Illinoisans to wear a mask to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“This pandemic has shined a light on the inequities faced in Black and Brown communities, especially when it comes to education,” Lightford said. “I urge everyone to do their part and mask up, so we can get students back into classrooms safely and give them the resources they need to succeed.”

Harris advocates for ex NFL Black players benefits

DOLTON - State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) released the following statement on the NFL using race as a category to judge whether ex-players should be paid for head injury claims Wednesday:

"It's sickening that the National Football League uses race to determine concussion settlements. Black players who sustained injuries while playing deserve the same support as white players. This is further proof the NFL does not care about players' livelihoods after their football career is finished – but rather only when they can help the league.

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Hunter pleased that Emmett Till’s home is officially a landmark

CHICAGO – After calls from advocate groups and state legislators, the Chicago City Council finalized a vote Wednesday to make Emmett Till’s home an official landmark. State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago), who was among those calls several months ago, is celebrating the council’s decision.

“I am proud to see that the City Council voted to preserve Emmett Till’s childhood home as a landmark,” Hunter said. “Though heartbreaking, Emmett Till’s lynching must be remembered, especially as we navigate race relations in these times of racial unrest.”

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