Harris announces Thornton Public Library District to receive mentoring grant

THORNTON – Hoping that local students will take advantage of resources at their local library, State Senator Napoleon Harris, III announced the Thornton Public Library District is set to receive $14,000 from the Project Next Generation grant.

“Keeping our students in learning atmospheres and not on the streets will help change the trajectory of their lives,” Harris said. “I strongly support supplying our local libraries with funding to create new resources that engage our students.”

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Harris fights for disparity study in energy legislation

SPRINGFIELD – As an advocate for inclusion and access for Black and Brown families in Illinois, State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) released a statement applauding new equity initiatives included in Illinois’ latest energy policy plan, including the requirement for a new disparity study to examine racial discrimination in the clean energy industry:
"As we invest in clean, renewable energy, we must ensure every resident has access to the jobs and programs this legislation will create. We already require other industries to conduct disparity studies—the energy and solar industries should be no different. Also, to increase transparency I intend to sponsor future legislation that would require every energy company to submit an annual report of the businesses they are working with to the Illinois Commerce Commission.

"Every business in Illinois must do their part to increase access to equitable jobs and further our goal of creating a more inclusive Illinois. We are moving toward a cleaner economy. That means new opportunities, new jobs and new lives, which should benefit everyone regardless of race or sex.”

Amtrak encouraged to provide contract goals for small and minority businesses under new Harris law

SPRINGFIELD – As Illinois movies toward a more equitable environment, State Senator Napoleon Harris III’s (D-Harvey) effort to encourage Amtrak to submit procurement goals for female-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned and small business enterprises was signed into law on Friday.

“Amtrak is a billion dollar transportation corporation and should be helping lead the charge in increasing diversity in Illinois contracting,” Harris said. “Everyone should have a shot at obtaining a public contract, and all industries should be pushing for equity to ensure Illinois become the one most equitable states in our nation.”

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DCFS to conduct racial disparity study under new law

SPRINGFIELD – The Department of Children and Family Services will conduct a study on racial disparities within Illinois’ support system for children and families because of a new law sponsored by Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey).

“We must ensure DCFS treats all children and families fairly,” Harris said. “Families of color should have the same opportunities as white families, and a report on racial disparities will help ensure that they do.”

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