Hunter on crimes against Black women: This is a crisis

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) issued the following statement in response to a CBS investigative report that examines the disparate impact crime has on Black women in Chicago:

“I am heartbroken, but unfortunately not surprised, by the results of this report. Violence against Black women isn’t a new problem — it is a persistent and pervasive one that our community has been grappling with for far too long.

“Hearing these women’s stories and seeing the shocking statistics from 2022 alone proves that we are not doing enough. This is a crisis, and we must work collaboratively to dismantle the systemic issues that perpetuate crime and victimization. As chair of the Task Force on Missing and Murdered Chicago Women, I am working to bring together law enforcement and community leaders to gain their perspective on how we can effectively address violence against women.

“While we have the data to show the scope of this problem, these aren’t just statistics — they are real people whose lives and the lives of their loved ones have been changed forever. Their fear and anger and loss are felt all over our city. We cannot accept a reality where Black women continue to be victimized.”

Hunter invites residents to mobile DMV event

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter is encouraging residents who may be unable to visit one of the state’s permanent DMV facilities to attend a mobile DMV event Thursday at the Chicago Urban League.

“This mobile DMV event serves as a one-stop shop that offers residents a chance to access these important state services at a convenient location,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I encourage community members to take advantage of this opportunity to renew their driver’s license, state ID or vehicle registration, or apply for a REAL ID.”

The mobile DMV event will be held Thursday, Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Chicago Urban League, 4510 S. Michigan Ave. Hunter is partnering with State Representative Kimberly Du Buclet, the Chicago Urban League, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and 3rd Ward Alderman Pat Dowell to bring these services to the community.

The mobile unit operates like a DMV office and will offer driver’s license renewals, state ID cards including REAL IDs, vehicle registration stickers and more. Some services will require documentation and applicable fees. Residents with questions can contact Du Buclet’s office at 773-924-4614.

Hunter helps send Chicago students on HBCU visit

CHICAGO — High school students will have an opportunity to visit one of the most prominent historically Black universities in the U.S. thanks to State Senator Mattie Hunter. The Chicago chapter of the Jackson State University National Alumni Association will take 40 students to JSU in November.

“As a Jackson State University alumna and member of the Chicago alumni chapter, I value the opportunity to help students experience the environment of an HBCU and learn more about an institution that may culturally resonate with them,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This is a chance for students to explore all of the possibilities available to further their education.”

Jackson State University is hosting their annual High School Day on Nov. 4, which will give students an opportunity to meet with enrollment and academic representatives and connect with student organizations on campus.

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Hunter responds to state agency transitions

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) issued the following statement in response to several upcoming changes in state agency leadership:

“I commend Governor Pritzker for ushering in new leadership to the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, the Department on Aging, and the Department of Children and Family Services. These transitions signal a fresh chapter in the state’s commitment to serving the people of Illinois and addressing the critical issues at hand.

“I would like to express my appreciation to outgoing directors Theresa Eagleson, Paula Basta and Marc Smith for their years of service and dedication. I look forward to working with new leadership to ensure Illinoisans, especially our most vulnerable populations, receive the support they need.”