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.
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.
Many individuals living in poverty are working more than one job, yet still struggle to make ends meet. People employed in low-wage or part-time positions are caught in a cycle where their earnings fall short of covering basic needs like food, utilities, and rent. Their reality of juggling multiple jobs challenges the narrative that poverty is a result of personal shortcomings.
Last month, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid approved the state’s application to use Medicaid funds for assistance with nutrition, housing, violence reduction and prevention, and transitions out of incarceration. It makes Illinois the first state to tackle such a broad range of social factors through Medicaid.
All families deserve to live in happy and stable homes free from criminalization, family separation, and surveillance.
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
