Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship grants help connect residents to good-paying careers in the trades. Schools, nonprofits and community organizations can apply for up to $550,000 by 5 p.m. on Aug. 31 to support pre-apprenticeship training across the state. bit.ly/3TSPmfR

In 1955, 14-year-old Emmett Till – a Chicago native – was lynched in Mississippi after being accused of interacting with a white women. Today, honor Till’s life and legacy by reflecting on his impact on the fight for racial justice and continuing to combat hate in all its forms.

Hepatitis C often has no symptoms, but it can still lead to serious liver damage, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. Make a plan to talk to your doctor about getting tested – it’s simple and can save your life. Learn more at cdc.gov/hepatitis.

The recently signed federal budget bill could have devastating impacts on working families and their access to health care. This law is the largest cut to Medicaid in U.S. history that could eliminate coverage for an estimated 330,000 Illinoisans.

While the federal budget strips resources away from public schools, Illinois is standing up for students – raising K-12 adequacy levels and increasing evidence-based funding by $2.1 billion since 2018 – because every child deserves a fully funded education.

The federal budget targets college affordability and slashes loan options. In Illinois, we’re doing the opposite – increasing MAP grants, boosting funding and removing barriers to make higher education attainable for everyone.

While workers continue to show up and keep our communities running, Illinois is holding employers accountable by making sure people are paid what they are owed. Learn more about efforts to secure fair workers’ rights and equal pay.

No one should have to worry about informing providers or staff about who to contact in case of emergency when seeking the care they need, Read more here: bit.ly/3H5tAmq

Illinois designated Aug. 4 to celebrate the enduring legacy of leadership, hope and progress brought to our nation by Barack Obama, who began his career serving the people of Illinois in the Land of Lincoln. Happy Barack Obama Day!

National Night Out is an annual community-police partnership event that aims to improve relationships between law enforcement and community members. Find participating departments in our community: natw.org/about/#map

In 2024, more than 148,000 Black-owned businesses called Illinois home. This Black Business Month, join me in uplifting and investing in the Black entrepreneurs who are vital to our communities and economy.

Back-to-school season is here – let’s make sure safety comes first. Whether students are riding the bus, biking, walking or commuting by car, we all play a role in keeping them safe. Learn more this Back to School Safety Month: tinyurl.com/32rkcfjm

Through unity, faith and discipline, Pakistan became an independent country in 1947. This Pakistan Independence Day, we honor the courage and resilience that made freedom possible.

Happy Indian Independence Day! Today we celebrate the spirit of freedom and unity and the beauty of perseverance.