2021 Public Training Series
A Civics Education Crafted for Chicago Organizers
The Chicago Votes bi-weekly training series includes community trainings meant to educate young organizers on vital elements of our legislative process, building your organizer toolbelt, and reentry for formerly incarcerated people.
If you would like ASL interpretation services, please email alex@chicagovotes.com the trainings you plan to attend.
Upcoming Trainings
Felony Disenfranchisement & Organizing on the Inside
May 7th, 1:30-3pm
Led by Dr. Christina Rivers, professor of political science at DePaul University, and Lauren Metlock of Parole Illinois, this training takes participants through the history of felony disenfranchisement and ways people in prison have organized to pass laws, influence policy, and advocate for their rights.
Hiring People After Prison: Employer Workshop
May 21st, 3-4:30pm
Each year, almost 30,000 people return home from Illinois prisons. Hiring people after they have served time in prison is a crucial step towards ensuring people have the resources they need for a successful reentry. The Hiring People After Prison Employer Workshop is an opportunity for your company to hear directly from formerly incarcerated individuals and those who have experience in employing people with records. Workshop participants will walk away with a better understanding of application and hiring accessibility best practices and ways to set your employees up for success.
Storytelling in Practice
June 4th, 3-4:30pm
Pablo Mendoza, from Parole Illinois, will teach participants about the storytelling process and the ways storytelling is used to uplift Senate Bill 2333, Earned Discretionary Reentry.
The Landscape of Criminal Justice Legislation in Illinois
June 18th, 3-4:30pm
There sheer amount of legislation aimed at addressing the criminal justice system can be overwhelming, let alone understanding the nuances of each bill and its advocates and opposition. To make the task a little easier, Illinois State Senator Robert Peters will be explaining some of the politics surrounding criminal justice legislation.