SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Napoleon Harris announced Wednesday he plans to pursue legislation to protect student athletes’ freedom of speech and make sure they aren’t punished academically or economically for taking a stand.

Harris’ interest in drafting Illinois protections follows news out of Missouri that Republican lawmakers want to crack down on African American football players who protested racial unrest on campus by refusing to play until the head of the university stepped down.

“I want to make sure our universities remain bastions of free speech and personal growth,” said Harris, a Harvey Democrat and former professional football player who starred at Northwestern University. “What was being discussed in Missouri is blatantly unconstitutional and treats students like they are property. I want to send a message that protects students’ rights before anyone gets any dumb ideas here.”

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus released a report today showing how Illinois’ budget impasse is disproportionally affecting communities of color. The report outlined numerous areas affecting these communities, including early childhood education, violence prevention, MAP grant funding and programs for seniors.

“This is unacceptable,” said State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey). “Illinois is suffering, and our most vulnerable continue to carry the burden. Poor African-American communities have historically been marginalized and they feel the impact first hand during times of economic trouble. These communities need access to child care programs, violence prevention programs and other important programs that are the first on the chopping block.”