Illinois Rep. Harper Attends International Conference on Political Renewal

LONDON – Illinois State Rep. Sonya M. Harper, D-Chicago, attended the inaugural conference of the Global Council for Political Renewal (GCPR) in London, U.K. from April 14-15. There, she made contacts with lawmakers from several nations—including the U.K., South Africa, Kenya, Ecuador, Italy and Malaysia—and participated in discussions focused on promoting ethical politics, human rights, and social and economic equity.  

“I was honored to be invited to the GCPR’s inaugural conference, which gave me the exciting opportunity to contribute to an organization that intends to lead globally in promoting ethical, people-focused politics,” Harper said. “We are experiencing a moment in which governments around the world are facing common challenges from partisanship, economic inequality and racial animus that complicate policy and hurt people and businesses. Common problems often need common solutions and, in any case, sharing experience and expertise can be invaluable.”

Harper is a leading advocate within Illinois’ state government for promoting racial, social and economic equity. Among her main priorities have been healthy food access, urban renewal, equity in agriculture and social justice.

The GCPR’s inaugural conference revolved around amplifying the voices of developing nations on the global stage, especially in terms of the response to climate change, economic inequality, trade, housing and human trafficking. Also discussed were ways to enable and encourage greater collaboration and trust between policymakers and academia on complex issues which often exceed the understanding of most laypeople.

“Broad cooperation and the robust exchange of ideas and solutions can only be of benefit to those who pursue them,” Harper said. “I am struck by how people from around the world are so diverse while, at the same time, having so much in common. From experiences to struggles to our priorities and the dreams we chase, much more unites us than divides us—if only we decide to see it.”

For more information about the GCPR, visit https://www.gcpr.global.

Harper’s office is reachable at 773-925-6580 or repsonyaharper@gmail.com.