In honor of Muslim Action Day on Thursday, Ali Mohmoud served as my page for the day. Ali is from Hanover Park and is currently attending University of Chicago, studying Political Science and Psychology. He graduated from Schaumburg High School among the top quarter tier of graduating students.

He was the captain of the Varsity Scholastic Bowl team, an AP Scholar with honors and participated in other organizations as well. After graduation Ali plans on joining the Peace Corps and ultimately intends on working with the US State Department.

"The great state of Illinois has always welcomed, supported and protected people of all races, religions and walks of life," said Hunter. "We must work together to inspire a movement to restore our inherent American value that all people deserve to live free of bigotry, hate and violence."

According to the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago [CIOGC], nearly one out of every four hate crimes with a religious bias takes place near a victim’s home, and 15.6 percent occur in churches, synagogues, temples or mosques.

In an effort to increase accountability among law enforcement officers, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) discussed new legislation that will require sobriety testing following all officer-involved shootings.

The initiative aims to improve credibility in police department investigations.

April is National Donate Life Month. All around the nation, advocates and organizers are encouraging individuals to register as organ, eye and tissue donors. The campaign has not only been designed to increase the donor registry list, but to also celebrate those that have helped save lives through the gift of donation.    

This 100th General Assembly, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) and Secretary of State Jesse White brought forth new legislation that would allow 16- and 17-year-olds to register for the state’s First Person Consent Organ/Tissue Donor Registry when they receive their driver’s license or identification card.

“Choosing to give life to another is a wonderful gift,” Hunter said. “Opening the donor registry will broaden the number of overall donations and save countless lives.”