Harper Leads Legislative Action Panel for Englewood Residents

CHICAGO – State Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, recently hosted a legislative action panel for Englewood residents in partnership with the Resident Association of Greater Englewood (R.A.G.E.).

“Political action is the foundation of democracy, from voting for representatives in government to advocating for positive change and community improvement during the legislative process,” Harper said. “I’m proud that I could partner with R.A.G.E. to help educate and inform residents on how to take effective legislative action.”

Harper hosted a legislative action panel in partnership with the R.A.G.E. community group for Englewood residents featuring Dr. Christina Rivers, a DePaul University political science professor and expert in community service studies and political representation, and Marlon Chamberlain, the Englewood community project manager for the Heartland Alliance’s Rapid Employment and Development Initiative (READI) program to provide jobs and support services to people impacted by gun violence. The panel discussed the challenges and opportunities of being involved in the legislative process with attendees and ways to take effective action during the legislative process.

“One of the most important roles I have as a state legislator is to take the voices of the communities I represent and translate them in to action that improves the lives of residents,” Harper said. “Helping educate and inform residents on how to be an effective part of the legislative process and how to take an active role in the democratic process is critical to ensuring I am an effective advocate for the people I represent.”

Harper represents the 6th District, which includes all or portions of Armour Square, Bridgeport, Chicago Lawn, Englewood, Gage Park, Back of the Yards, Canaryville, New City, West Englewood, Marquette Park, South Loop and River North.