CHICAGO – As the holiday season begins and the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many families are not able to afford delicious, healthy meals. To help bring some cheer this holiday season, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) partnered with Meridian Health, U.N.I.O.N. Impact and Centennial Missionary Baptist Church to give back to the Southside community by helping families put good, healthy food on their tables.

“The winter holiday season is always a time to exude the spirit of giving,” Hunter said. “This winter, as so many are dealing with unemployment and loss, it is especially important that we make sure our residents are cared for.”

CHICAGO – During Thursday’s joint Senate hearing on age, equity, workers’ rights and consumer protection, Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) advocated for increased protection among minority workers and consumers.

The U.S. Department of Labor in October released a wage report for the third quarter of this year, revealing that Black workers on average earn 72% of what white men earn. Broken down by gender, Black men earn 77.5% of what white men earn, while Black women make only 68.5%. In Chicago specifically, wage gaps grew significantly over the last several decades, causing what UIC researchers call “a growing exodus” of Black Chicagoans.

CHICAGO – Following another joint Senate hearing on diversity in procurement, Business Enterprise Program, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise policies and labor unions, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) continues to advocate for equity, capacity building, and economic access for minority workers.

“It’s imperative that our workforces reflect the communities they serve,” Hunter said. “Coincidentally, we are discussing diversity and procurement during National Apprenticeship week, which only serves as a reminder that apprenticeships can be a major catalyst in advancing the careers of those who might not otherwise be exposed to the same kinds of opportunity.”

CHICAGO – Following the Senate Public Health and Health and Human Services final hearing on the Legislative Black Caucus’ four pillar agenda, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) says she is ready to continue reforming the state’s health care system.

“Our health care system is deeply flawed, but over the last few weeks, we’ve heard many recommendations on where to start reforming it,” Hunter said. “We must all be more informed about health literacy and examine the social determinants of health so that everyone has equal access to nourishment and well-being.”