Ford Reflects on Black History Month, Urges Continued Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Reflecting on Black History Month, state Rep. La Shawn K. Ford, D-Chicago, emphasized the urgent need to tackle the lasting effects of slavery and systemic racism, calling for a continued commitment to equity, justice and fairness.  

“The effects of slavery and systemic racism have created an unbalanced foundation that continues to impact the lives of countless Black individuals today,” Ford said. “Despite significant progress made during Reconstruction, the civil rights movement, and the implementation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives along with affirmative action, we are still far from achieving a truly equal playing field for all Americans.”  

Ford highlighted the enduring influence of Jim Crow laws and their contemporary equivalent—the “New Jim Crow”—which continue to sustain racial disparities in critical areas like criminal justice, housing, employment and education.  

“Even if the playing field were leveled today, Black Americans would still begin from a position of disadvantage due to generations of systemic oppression,” Ford said. “Efforts to dismantle DEI and affirmative action without addressing these structural barriers are like stopping treatment for a disease while ignoring its root cause.”  

Ford emphasized the significance of DEI and affirmative action as drivers of national growth and progress.  

“These initiatives have benefited marginalized groups and strengthened the nation by promoting the inclusion of talented individuals from diverse backgrounds,” Ford said. “They have expanded the talent pool and stimulated innovation in business, science, education and culture.”  

With the federal administration cutting programs that support diversity and inclusion, Ford warns of the risk of falling back into an era marked by discrimination and exclusion.  

“To genuinely honor the legacy of Black history, we must commit to breaking down barriers and nurturing a society where equity is essential to all institutions,” Ford said. “Only then can we imagine a future where DEI and affirmative action are no longer needed because every American has an equal chance to succeed.”  

“It’s crucial to remember that Black individuals have never asked for handouts or shortcuts. They simply desire a fair chance at the American dream. As patriots, our aim should not be to ‘make America great again,’ but to continue progressing toward building a more perfect union where fairness, justice, and opportunity are available to everyone.”

For more information, please contact RepFord@LaShawnFord.com.