CHICAGO, Ill. – Illinois’ elected officials celebrated this first state and national Juneteenth holiday Monday, but they admit more needs to be done.
Speaking in Chicago, Governor JB Pritzker says the fight for racial equality isn’t one that’s close to being over.
“So much that we still need to do…are people free yet? No,” said Pritzker. “Our job is to create an American that is free and equitable and rooted in justice for all.”
Pritzker says, however, Illinois is making great strides, with investments in violence prevention programs, job training, education, and criminal justice reform.
On the positive side for many, Juliana Stratton is the first African-American to hold the position of Lieutenant Governor in Illinois.
“Is there more work to do? Of course there is,” said Stratton. “Look around today. We are doing it. We are here together, serving community together. That’s cause for celebration.”
Speakers also called for a need to end gun violence, a need to raise wages, and a need make housing more affordable, especially for minorities.
