Illinois

Obama Foundation and Presidential Center Workers to Unionize

Sixty-eight employees signed an open letter announcing a union campaign. Organizers greeted colleagues outside work, distributed buttons and information, and began soliciting union-authorization cards. The proposed unit could cover more than 250 employees working at the Chicago presidential center, in Washington and remotely.

Financial & Economic System Labor Organizing

Chicago Sun-Times • Chicago, IL • Oct 7, 2026

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Year-Long Legal Fight for Public Records Uncovers Complaints about Government Contractor

A private attorney acting in his personal capacity submitted public-records requests, appealed to Illinois’ Public Access Counselor and sued the Chicago Transit Authority after it failed to provide records relating to a private canine security contractor deployed on train platforms across the city. It took nearly a year to receive the records.

Government Transparency & Accountability Public Records Request

ABC 7 Eyewitness News • Chicago, IL • Sep 14, 2026

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High School Students Hold Walkout to Support Peer Students from Another School after Racist Incidents

In a walkout organized by their classmates, dozens of high school students walked out of classes peacefully, denounced reported racist conduct by members of their school community and supported students at a neighboring predominantly Black school that were reportedly the victims of racist comments. Parents also appeared in solidarity and called for action by administrators and the school board to address the incidents.

Education Peaceful Protest/Demonstration

CBS News • IL • Sep 9, 2026

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Artists Assemble Illustrated Zines and Whistles for Neighborhood Alert Effort Amid Immigration Crackdown

The March 17, 2026, segment shows Chicago artists using their skills in response to federal immigration enforcement. Volunteers at the Pilsen Arts and Community House assemble illustrated zines and whistles for a neighborhood alert effort. Other artists make prints and banners, while one collective holds banner-making gatherings that bring residents together.

Civil Liberties & Human Dignity Civic Initiative Protest Art

PBS • Chicago, IL • Mar 17, 2026

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