Chicago State University Announces Plan to Prevent Youth Violence

On Sunday, May 5, 2019 Chicago State University held a press conference with Illinois State Representatives LaShawn K. Ford and Nicholas K. Smith to announce its plan to prevent youth violence. The press conference began at 2.p.m with remarks from Chicago State President, Z Scott, Esq.

“To address unemployment and violence, we need to develop policies and programs that provide our young adults with opportunities to build better lives for themselves and their families”, said Z Scott, President, Chicago State University.

Representative LaShawn K. Ford introduced and passed legislation which created the Commission on Young Adult Employment Act.  The Commission is charged with identifying issues concerning the readiness and ability of young adults to find employment. Chaired by Dr. Kelly Harris, Associate Professor of American Studies at CSU the Commission is a group of eighteen that will consult with state agencies, community stakeholder, local school boards and other institutions of higher education. 

Chicago State University will provide administrative support for the Commission on Young Adult Employment and work with Illinois legislators to secure funding for the Commission.

“The state must invest more in our workforce to train and prepare young people for the thousands of vacant jobs in Illinois and across the country.  The violence in the state of Illinois will only worsen if our focus is to increase tax revenue to increase policing and not on training for a healthy workforce.”, said Ford.  

CSU students and several community members and organizers from the Chicagoland area were in attendance at the press conference to show their support for the new plan including: Ex Cons for Community and Social Change, Rossmoor Community Association and the Westchesterfield Community Association. 

“CSU is located in the heart of the Southeast side of Chicago, and our goal is to assist communities in developing ways to break down barriers, empower its residents, and improve outcomes,” said President Scott.  “This is why we are thrilled that we have been asked to convene this Commission.  We are hopeful that the Illinois legislature will provide the Commission with the much-needed funding critical to the success of this important initiative.”