Chicago City Clerk

The event reflects the hard work students have put in throughout the year, from learning about local government in the classroom and engaging with Chicago leaders to researching issues impacting their communities and developing policy proposals to present in City Council chambers.

Longtime Chicago radio voice and former 20th Ward Alderman Cliff Kelley spent 16 years serving the people of Chicago while helping shape conversations around civic engagement, public policy and social justice across the city. Best known for his influential work on WVON, during Kelley's time as an alder, he took a bold and pioneering stand in 1973 when he sponsored one of Chicago’s first proposed ordinances aimed at prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation. This was a significant act of leadership at a time when few public officials were willing to do so openly. For his advocacy and allyship, Kelley was later inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame as a “Friend of the Community.” A "Difference Maker," his contributions helped lay the groundwork for future protections and remain an important part of Chicago’s civil rights history.

Happy Pride, Chicago! 🌈 June is all about celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, honoring the activists and pioneers who fought for equality and recognizing the ongoing work toward inclusion, dignity and justice for all. We're highlighting a few of the people we call "difference makers!"

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Spencer Leak Jr., Vice President of Leak & Sons Funeral Homes and a respected leader whose impact will be felt for generations.

Our team and I connected with residents and shared our resource guides while supporting a day focused on healing, wellness and bringing the community together at the Mayor's Office of Community Safety's Summer Safety Wellness Fair.

Chicago’s community continues to influence the city today. Our final highlight for this month, we’re recognizing Grace Pai. As Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice Chicago, she works to advance civil rights and advocate for AANHPI communities across the city. In 2021, she led the campaign to require the teaching of Asian American history in all Illinois public schools, making Illinois the first state to do so.

I attended Chicago’s annual wreath-laying ceremony last weekend to honor the courageous service members who gave their lives in service to our country and pay tribute to Gold Star Families, whose strength and sacrifice continue to inspire us all.