Chicago Park District’s Post

𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬: How MLK Jr. Sculpted Our Cities. "If you can't fly, then run. If you can't run, then walk. If you can't walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝." - Martin Luther King Jr. This philosophy of relentless progress resonates deeply with me and has had major impact in today’s commercial real estate (CRE) world. 🏙️ Fair Housing Act of 1968: A week after King’s assassination, this pivotal act was passed, combating housing discrimination and reshaping the CRE sector. His advocacy for fair housing laid the foundation for equitable real estate practices, ensuring that the industry moved forward with integrity and inclusivity. 🌆 Urban Development: King’s pursuit of justice fueled urban revitalization efforts, especially in areas marred by racial segregation. His impact transcends beyond civil rights to influence how we reimagine and invest in our urban landscapes. 💼 Economic Equality: King’s fight for economic parity shed light on disparities in commercial opportunities. As we honor MLK Jr.'s legacy, let's reflect on how his vision continues to inspire and shape the CRE industry. His message of progress, against all odds, is a powerful reminder of the role we play in driving equitable growth and development. 👇 How do you see MLK Jr.'s influence in your industry? Share your thoughts below. #MLKDay #CRE #UrbanDevelopment #commercialrealestate

A great organization and a highly worthwhile focus.

Step back in time with BeLocal Hinsdale! 🕰️ Discover the rich history of their community through 'A Short History of Hinsdale' by Jenna Krukowski, courtesy of the Hinsdale Historical Society. 🏡 From its railroad beginnings to the bustling village they know today, learn how Hinsdale transformed over the years. 🚂✨ #belocal #belocalmagazine #newmovers #hiddengems #newresidents #newcity #communitylife #communitysupport #localbusinesses #smallbusinesses #localtips

What an incredible story! This serves as an important reminder of the profound impact that personal experiences and historical struggles for equity and justice can have on our professional paths and personal philosophies. Michael and Hal's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the public health sphere is a powerful reminder of how societal issues like racism directly influence health outcomes. It's inspiring to see how Hal’s legacy of fighting for civil rights and overcoming racism has shaped Michael's career, especially in his dedication to mentoring underrepresented students. This narrative underscores the importance of recognizing #BlackHistoryMonth not only as a celebration of achievements and resilience, but also as a critical lens through which we examine and address ongoing public health disparities. It’s a call to action for all of us in the field to prioritize equity in our work and to continue the fight against systemic barriers to health and well-being.

What we learn here is what we're capable of in the face of the most egregious hate and laws.

DeWayne Elliot's life completely changed when he was connected to housing through the Flexible Housing Pool from the Center for Housing and Health, a subsidiary of AFC. Read about his path to getting housing and embarking on a new career, why he loves Chicago Public Library (same!), and his message to other young people in our latest blog post: https://lnkd.in/gtPek5ij

June 19 commemorates Juneteenth, the day in 1865 on which enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally received the promise offered by the Emancipation Proclamation, more than two years after its issuance.   President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation — “sincerely believed to be an act of justice” — offered not just freedom but hope for equality. Nearly 160 years later, we continue to work toward the promise of this monumental document, with much left to do.   At Greater St. Louis, Inc., we know that success for each of us is success for all of us. Achieving our North Star — inclusive economic growth — means that we must take into account the often painful history of both our region and our country and attempt to bridge the opportunity gaps left behind. Only by working together can we create opportunity, access, and equity for all. Explore Juneteenth events across the metro: https://lnkd.in/gpxAR354

BACK IN CHICAGO... The skyline of this city can be described as overwhelming. Historically and architecturally, Chicago is breathtaking. Like many other cities in the USA, the biggest city of the state of Illinois symbolizes the American Dream, rooted in the legacy of Calvinist-Protestant thinking, which continues to drive what the USA represents today. Paired with an expansionist drive based on affordable raw materials and energy, it unfolds what is commonly referred to as the "American Dream." However, not everyone benefits from this dream. Many simply can't keep up anymore. One also encounters a divided country whose narrative of endless wealth is based on the Protestant settlers who once left Europe in search of the Promised Land. Linked with the firm belief that God makes those who adhere to the orthodox rules of Calvinist-Protestant thinking wealthy. Certainly, today, many years after the colonization of the continent, faith, at least metaphorically, plays a subordinate role. Financial resources dominate people's thoughts. Some can afford many things, while others live paycheck to paycheck. I don't believe that those who have more are chosen by God. They simply seized their opportunities in a land characterized by extreme competition. I am still trying to comprehend this country... Simon Jacob, September 18, 2023, USA, Illinois, Chicago...

Hope, vision, and place-based civic heath are key elements to our ability to navigate the turbulent times that have left so many of us in fear and despair.    https://lnkd.in/gCbm785K

Overall, Cincinnatians feel better about their city. Cincinnati improved in all five broad categories. Here are the percent answering "excellent" or "good" when asked about Cincinnati: As a place to live: 2021: 79% 2023: 81% As a place to work: 2021: 75% 2023: 77% As a place I feel welcome: ·        2021: 67% ·        2023: 74% As a place to raise children: ·        2021: 67% ·        2023: 70% As a place to retire: ·        2021: 47% ·        2023: 51%