Make Laws, Not War
Since February 26, the spotlight has shined brightly on the history-in-the-making runoff election between two African-American women who want to be Mayor of Chicago and move into the fabled fifth floor of City Hall. But after the April 2nd runoff election, it will be the occupants of the second floor at City Hall who will […]
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What It Takes to ‘Approve This Message’
Chicago is about a week away from a hugely consequential municipal election. For avid political observers (guilty), the final chess moves in the campaign’s homestretch are always a thrill. But for many, the lead-up to Election Day is defined by a cacophony of political ads – which can test the patience of even the most […]
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A Door to Change
Three political events have converged that may finally bring change to the way the Chicago City Council carries out its business, and perhaps update the infamous “Chicago Way.” First is this month’s indictment of Ed Burke, the City’s longest-serving alderman, and one if its most powerful as head of the Finance Committee – although that […]
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How to Keep the Train Moving in the Ride-Sharing Era
For decades, public transportation has helped America’s largest metropolitan areas thrive by helping millions of commuters get to and from work, home and play. Public transit options encourage economic development in surrounding areas by providing jobs, reducing road congestion, travel times, air pollution and oil consumption. But ride-sharing is cutting into public transit ridership nationwide, […]
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Say What You Think and See What Happens
The late poet, short story writer and feminist peace activist Grace Paley is a heroine of mine. She protested against nuclear proliferation from the 1950s until her death in 2007, and her activism ranged to include protests against the Vietnam War, human rights violations worldwide, and U.S. military intervention in Central America. I saw her […]
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