City Bureau interviewed more than 20 recently arrived migrants living in city-run shelters who have faced struggles as they sought out legal pathways to work in Chicago. Here are three of their stories.
City Bureau spoke with more than a dozen migrant day laborers who said wage theft, sub-minimum wage rates, and clashes with Home Depot security personnel — including off-duty Chicago Police Department officers — have made it precarious for them to look for work.
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. LaShawn 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.
Jess Maciuch, a Northwestern University researcher of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long Covid, laments that there’s little talk of chronic illness during election season.
The nightmare before — and after — Christmas?
Plus, play #ChiBudgetBingo with us Monday, Dec. 16, 1 p.m. 🤑
Plus, #ChiBudgetBingo coming in hot
Plus, join us at the Public Newsroom this week!
Niya Kelly of the Chicago Coalition to End Homelessness challenges common misconceptions about voting without a permanent address.
Englewood and Bronzeville residents say politicians aren’t doing enough when they’re not campaigning for votes.
Plus, 7 years into restorative justice in Cook County
Our Pulitzer Prize-winning investigation, “Missing in Chicago,” gets its day at City Hall
Plus, get ready for #ChiBudgetSzn!
Plus, a budget for Chicago Parks
Plus, the fate of Chicago schools CEO
A collaboration between Chicago Documenters and Civic Reporting Fellows dug into questions surrounding the electoral process. Here’s what they found.
Plus, a budget for CPD
Plus, Riot Fest to remain in Douglass Park