We lead the fight for economic and racial justice by litigating, shaping policy, and training and connecting people in the advocacy community.
We don’t just fight for communities affected by poverty—we work alongside them, advocating for solutions that are informed by their lived experiences.
We convene and connect advocates, community leaders, and activists across the country so they can share ideas, resources, and get the tools they need.
We build the capacity and skills of equal justice lawyers and activists to champion economic and racial justice in their fields.
From litigating and shaping policies in Illinois to training and convening multi-state networks of public interest attorneys, we work with and for the communities we serve to make equal justice and economic opportunity a reality.
In the face of a deeply polarized nation, this election has brought profound emotions and urgent questions about how each of us is seen and valued. For many of us who identify as people of color, immigrants, members of the LGBTQ+ community, or allies in the fight for justice, this moment can feel jarring. But it is also a call to action and an opportunity.
As difficult as that feels, ending poverty is ultimately a policy choice. We already know that measures like the child tax credit and progressive taxation can lift all boats. As we head toward Election Day, we must remember that when we center poverty in our politics, we all win.
The presidential elections are less than a week away. The results could affect everything from reproductive rights and the state of democracy to the programs and policies that support people experiencing poverty. The Shriver Center on Poverty Law spoke with a number of our advocates about how — or whether — the outcome of the 2024 elections will shape their work.
According to the Consumer Protection Financial Bureau, $88 billion in unpaid medical bills are in the hands of debt collectors. That’s more than any other type of personal debt. One unexpected procedure or sudden loss of employment can have devastating financial consequences for families and individuals in need of health care.
The Shriver Center wants to build a future free from poverty and racism. Read insights from our experts and advocates about the fight for racial and economic justice.
As the season of gratitude begins, we’re reminded of the strength and importance of our amazing community of leaders, advocates, grassroots activists, and beyond. Erin Dowland Kabwe, the Shriver Center’s vice president of development, profiles the Community Memorial Foundation, a critical partner that funds necessary work in the pursuit of health and racial equity.
Stephani Becker, the assistant director of health justice for the Shriver Center, recently spoke about the significance of the exchange and our continued efforts to expand health care to everyone in Illinois.
President and CEO Audra Wilson writes that the core of the Shriver Center’s 60-year history remains the same: changing rules to change lives. That’s why we chose it as the theme of our 2024 Annual Gala.
Vice President of Advocacy LaTanya Jackson Wilson writes that community and family justice is the heart of the Shriver Center’s work.
We can’t do this work alone.
If you’re a lawyer, paralegal, or a policy maker, there are many ways you can participate and contribute to our work.
With your help, we can build a better, more compassionate world. Join us.
67 East Madison Street, Suite 2000
Chicago, IL 60603
phone: 312.263.3830
Now more than ever, your investment is crucial for changing rules that change lives. To build a future free from poverty and racism, join our movement today.