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For media inquiries, contact Dawn Raftery at dawnraftery@povertylaw.org. See our most recent press releases below.

Shriver Center in the News


Shriver Center President and CEO Audra Wilson told Salon: “I was both a campaign staffer and an Illinois delegate at the 2004 Democratic National Convention when then state senator Barack Obama gave his legendary ‘Red State Blue State’ speech. I was also on site and up close in Grant Park in November of 2008 where Barack and Michelle made history in being elected the first Black president and first lady of the United States. So naturally, I was excited to hear them speak at the 2024 convention, and on the cusp of another milestone: the election of America’s first female president. As a couple, they still exuded the same elegance, grace, and wisdom as they always have. But their tone was decidedly starker.”

Charnae Harmon was just 11 years old when her family moved into the Henry Horner Homes in 1985. Harmon recalls the “horrible conditions” that characterized her childhood inside the Horner high-rises. The development first began in the mid-'90s, around the time of the first Chicago-hosted Democratic National Convention (DNC). Now, after the DNC's return, the Chicago Housing Authority is trying to end an agreement guaranteeing adequate housing before the final phase of the redevelopment is complete.

In New York state, tenants can now take landlords to court to force repairs and get damages, without withholding rent first. Here's how one of the first tests of the new law worked.

Chicago is relaunching its guaranteed income program, which will give recipients $500 a month for one year – no strings attached. NBC Chicago’s Regina Waldroup talked to two people who said the program has changed their lives.

More News Coverage

News Releases


The Shriver Center on Poverty Law today announced 25 Fellows for its 2024 Racial Justice Institute (RJI). Now in its 11th year, the innovative leadership development program brings together anti-poverty advocates from around the country to learn new tools to advance racial equity.  

This one-day event marks the 60th year of the war on poverty. That national commitment led to the Shriver Center on Poverty Law’s formation under Sargent Shriver.

A new ordinance passed today by the Chicago City Council will double the minimum number of paid days off available for Chicago workers, making the city the first in the country to offer paid time off.

The 2022 annual report reflects on the past year’s accomplishments to close the wealth gap for people of color amid a rise in racialized violence during a challenging political environment.

Nonprofit executive brings nearly 25 years’ experience in fundraising initiatives, special events and stakeholder engagement.

Earlier News Releases

Statements


Statement from Audra Wilson, President and CEO of the Shriver Center on Poverty Law

We applaud the Chicago City Council Workforce Development Committee for voting earlier today, 13-2, to expand our city’s current paid time off requirements.

A contemporary of Sargent Shriver, Newton Minow leaves behind public service legacy.

Earlier Statements

From the Desk of Audra Wilson


President and CEO urges us to live our values

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.

‘A future worth fighting for’

President and CEO Audra Wilson reflects on our history and solutions to advance our shared mission

Harvard’s leadership scandal underscored by racial bias

Statement from Audra Wilson, President and CEO of the Shriver Center on Poverty Law

There’s No Room for White Fragility in the Fight for Racial Justice

Minimizing, sanitizing, or rejecting the existence of racism doesn’t make it vanish.

We Are Made by History

The challenges we face in the fight for racial and economic justice have roots in our history as a country.

Attacks on Critical Race Theory Undermine Advocacy for Racial and Economic Justice

Without history, there is no basis for comprehensive advocacy efforts for racial and economic justice.

We Must Honor American Workers on Labor Day by Continuing to Fight for Their Rights

We must acknowledge the myriad challenges facing workers, especially in the wake of the pandemic.

Laying Down the Burdens of Being First, Only Different

Embracing, supporting and promoting BIPOC leaders can truly enrich an organization.

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