I pay attention to politics but I’m not hyper-involved in the details. At one point and time I was but not so much anymore. However, I try to stay abreast of politics solely because I want to know what’s going on. Not so much to stay tuned into the nitty gritty of policy. For a very long time, I was a vocal advocate for people to engage with politics especially on the local level. And by local level I primarily mean the school board as those elected officials hold a lot of influence within the lives of families because the majority of your child’s day is in school. After the school board, I suggest paying attention to city council meetings and their votes. Yet, many people bemoan what’s happening at the national level bypassing the state level of politics and county politics.
Why am I rambling about this?
The 2025 Presidential election was a turning point in how numerous people view politics, particularly voting now. While griping is the main tendency people are engaging in related to what’s happening, there is an organization that has been working (one of many, I’m just focusing on this one organization) for years building a solid foundation for organizations to partner together to work with amplifying the voices of Black women. I was one of the 90,000+ women who joined the call on July 21, 2024. Since then I’ve attended the calls and most recently became involved with the Win With Black Women Illinois chapter.
The first Meet and Greet was held April 12, 2025. Let me just say whatever they did or how hard they prayed, it truly set the atmosphere. It was a calming environment filled with excitement, energy and willingness to roll up sleeves and do the work necessary to move the agenda forward that will protect and propel the Black community. There was a level of peace that existed in the room that I haven’t felt in a very long time when I’m among a group of people. The fervor of anticipation was felt throughout. The sense of purpose was the focal point. The intention of commitment to the community was championed. Within that fury of elation I knew I wanted to be part of an organization that carried a level of caring I haven’t seen nor felt in such a long time being part of an organization. Outside of my church.
While the feelings were fluttering about, the agenda for the day was to hear what 4 elected officials shared about their fidelity to the work they are doing for their constituents. These 4 elected officials represent work at the local, county, state and national level. It was nice to hear voices from all levels to see the work being done as well as what it took each of them to get there and continue to be seen, heard and taken seriously. Here are just 4 Black women who are doing the work in Illinois at varying levels.
Commissioner Kari Steele (Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago)
As someone who is still new to Illinois, Win With Black Women Illinois feels like a nice fit to help me get acclimated with the political climate here, learn what’s going on and get engaged so I’m part of the solution.
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