CHICAGO – After years of being challenged by West Side youth, the Chicago Park District Board voted Wednesday to rename Douglas Park after famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass. State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) is celebrating the victory in her district.

“I’m glad the city is finally taking this step, after years of pleas to rid the park of Stephen Douglas’ name,” Van Pelt said. “Though there’s still massive issues in front of us, these victories are also significant, and I hope other cities will reconsider the monuments and park names across the state.”

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CHICAGO – Last Friday, a great civil rights leader and U.S. Representative John Lewis passed away. State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) released the following statement, remembering his life and legacy:

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Senator Van Pelt’s office is partnering with Howard Brown Health to offer mobile COVID-19 testing for seniors in our district July 27th and 28th. No appointments necessary, just walk up. Masks are required. We will provide masks for those who are in need. Also, if you haven’t already, you will be able to fill out the 2020 census on site. Hope to see you there!

DATE
July 27th and 28th

TIME

Testing is from 10 AM - 2:30 PM

LOCATION
7th - John Sullivan Apartments
1633 W. Madison
8th - Albany Terrace Apartments
3030 W. 21st Place

*You may complete the census at both locations.

For more information please call Senator Van Pelt’s office at 312-888-9191 or Howard Brown Health Center at 773-388-1600.

CHICAGO – The U.S. Supreme Court this week authorized the resumption of the death penalty, permitting the country’s first execution in 17 years, leading State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) to call for capital punishment to be abolished at the federal level.

“Is this the way we want to use the power of the state, in the middle of a global pandemic: to kill people?” Van Pelt said. “There can be no true exoneration after the death penalty. People like George Stinney can never be brought back.”

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