It’s a myth that young people don’t care about politics or social issues. In Chicago, organizers are building relationships among Black youth and young adults so they feel empowered to participate in their communities and vote.

More than 55,000 Chicagoans over 18 are experiencing homelessness, and it’s difficult to prioritize voting alongside immediate needs. But advocates say it’s important to mobilize, especially with a presidential administration targeting government spending.

Thousands of Illinoisans could not vote in November, as the state bans people from voting while serving time for felony sentences. This exclusion from the civic process highlights how incarceration and reintegration challenges can prevent someone participating in democracy.

One big issue was largely missing from the election season: Covid-19 and Long Covid. Chicago organizers and disability advocates are still fighting for locals to take the issue seriously. They are urging residents to demand that public officials reinstate citywide Covid mandates, such as mandatory masking and testing.

Organizers who work in education, homelessness and housing justice shared several tips on how Chicagoans can get more involved in key local issues affecting our communities in 2025.

State Rep. La Shawn K. Ford hasn’t given up on making it legal for people convicted of felonies to vote while serving their sentence. He’s working on new legislation after his first bill stalled in Springfield.

Jahmal Cole, founder of youth advocacy organization My Block, My Hood, My City, said it’s critical for mentors like him to show young people how local politics affect their lives and how they can overcome challenges to use their influence.

Englewood and Bronzeville residents say politicians aren’t doing enough when they’re not campaigning for votes.