A Discussion with State Senator Mike Simmons

by L ShoulterKarall

Mike Simmons, the newly appointed 7th District State Senator, answered questions from more than 40 of his constituents in a virtual event on Feb 17, co-sponsored and emceed by Andre Vasquez, 40th Ward Alderman and Maggie O’Keefe, 40th Ward Democratic Committeewoman.

Senator Simmons discussed his personal story as a gay Black man in the world and his lived experience growing up as on Chicago’s Northside as an immigrant in a predominantly white community.

The Senator talked about his activism around issues including economic insecurity and disparities around access to healthcare and affordable housing, and his motivations for becoming a candidate.

He answered several questions submitted by the audience including issues such as the inequitable distribution of cannabis licenses, and lack of access to grant money for small businesses in the area.

And we learned that less than one month into his first term, Senator Simmons is already on the ground and has launched his District listening tour.

For many people, the evening was energizing and an opportunity to engage in a positive agenda for the future. But the event is also a reminder that we cannot relax and hope that all of our elected officials will have our best interests in mind and elevate our issues in Springfield and in Washington D.C.

Voting is just one way we exercise our right; there are other ways to participate in the democratic process. You can make your voice heard by being involved in the political process in your community!

• Follow your elected officials online on social media.

• Contact your local politicians if you have an issue you want them to address.

• Show up when your Alderman, Committeewoman, Representative or Senator holds an event and be heard.