News coverage of Chicago, produced by City Bureau reporters and Documenters. To see select projects created in our Civic Reporting Programs, go to Collections.
Thousands of Illinoisans could not vote in November, as the state bans people from voting while serving time for felony sentences. This exclusion from the civic process highlights how incarceration and reintegration challenges can prevent someone participating in democracy.
Plus, police districts strategic plans
Mental health challenges among U.S. college students peaked early in the pandemic. More students are reaching out for help, but many are unable to get proper treatment – so they are left to cope and find support on their own.
Plus, Police Board sees fewer cases
One big issue was largely missing from the election season: Covid-19 and Long Covid. Chicago organizers and disability advocates are still fighting for locals to take the issue seriously. They are urging residents to demand that public officials reinstate citywide Covid mandates, such as mandatory masking and testing.
Plus, representation for low-income housing fund
The city needs more spaces for young people to connect and support each other. The best ones are spearheaded by the young people they’re meant to serve, organizers say.
Auburn Gresham residents are leaning on block clubs, community gardens and more as they fight for better mental health resources and social services.
Plus, closing the racial gap for Chicago homeowners
Chicagoans in under-resourced neighborhoods say barriers to accessing mental health services affect youths, adults — and whole communities.
Plus, demands for a police district council member to resign
Raymond Thompson, a South Side organizers, believes better mental health will come from having open, self-aware and mindful communication between generations.
Schools across the country — and in Illinois — are facing drastic teacher shortages. One researcher says trauma-informed training could help.
Young Black Americans are at a higher risk than non-Black peers to experience anxiety and depression, and the rate of Black youths who have died by suicide is increasing more rapidly than any other racial or ethnic group. Adults must step in to help Chicago’s youth learn to cope, says therapist Thomas Ivey.
Many Chicagoans overwhelmingly support more mental health clinics and services, but South and West siders are still battling for more access to proper care.
Plus, get a free heart screening
When day laborers do get jobs, it is common for many to be paid far below minimum wage or not at all. The worst cases involve threats of violence, harassment, sexual exploitation and assault. But there are ways for these workers to stay safe.
Thousands have received work permits or temporary protection from deportation for reporting workplace abuse under the Deferred Action for Labor Enforcement. But the future of the program is unclear.
Plus, Civic Reporting Fellows on the elections beat
El robo de salarios, los salarios inferiores al mínimo y los enfrentamientos con el personal de seguridad de Home Depot (incluidos agentes del Departamento de Policía de Chicago fuera de servicio) han hecho que el buscar trabajo sea precario para los inmigrantes recién llegados.
