SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) released the following statement in response to the Senate’s passage of the state’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget:

"I am pleased to see Illinois continue its commitment to supporting our most vulnerable populations. The historic investments made in this budget will have a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those in need.

“An $85 million increase in funding for unhoused populations will provide critical support for homelessness prevention, affordable housing and outreach programs. Additionally, a new Illinois Grocery Initiative will expand food access in underserved areas, promoting healthier communities statewide.

“Recognizing our responsibility to protect youth in state care, a $75 million increase for the Department of Children and Family Services will fund additional staff, enhance training programs, increase opportunities for youth and improve care facilities. Moreover, a new Children's Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative will improve access to essential behavioral health services for our state’s youth.

“This budget also demonstrates our commitment to working families by investing in child care, workforce training and education, ensuring parents no longer have to choose between caring for their family and making a living.”

On the 69th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision, we are again called upon to reflect and act in the interest of Democracy.

In 2003, I passed a resolution creating the Illinois Commission on the 50th Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education to help educate the public about the importance of the decision and its impact on education in Illinois. The commission commemorated Brown with a statewide reenactment of the Supreme Court decision and a call to continue fighting for racial equality in education. To this day, educational materials created by the commission are still used by teachers and students across the state.

Since the historic decision in 1954, it’s frequently asked, “Has any progress been made?” The answer is a resounding “Yes.” Yet, we must continue to work to ensure that each person has access to equal educational opportunities, regardless of their race or ethnicity. Today we honor the courageous citizens and elected officials who delivered Brown and those who continue to fight for equality on all fronts for all people.

With great sadness, we join Arèanah Preston’s loved ones in mourning the loss of the beloved officer. Officer Preston should be here today participating in her graduation ceremony. Join us in our calls for peace for Preston.

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