The Nation and the World Mark Passing of Civil Rights Icon Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr.
The Family of Civil Rights Icon and Founder of Rainbow PUSH Coalition Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., Dies at 84 Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., 84, an iconic figure in the fight for civil rights, international justice, and human dignity, passed away in the late hours of Monday night, Feb. 16, 2026. The esteemed founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that has forever redefined...
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Chicago Son Derrick Rose Gets No. 1 Jersey Retirement at United Center
On this past Saturday night, the United Center was filled with emotion, pride, and nostalgia as the Chicago Bulls officially retired Derrick Rose’s No. 1 jersey, cementing his place among the franchise’s all-time greats. The ceremony honored not only Rose’s historic career, but also his deep connection to the city that raised him and supported him from the very beginning. A Chicago native from Englewood, Rose became a hometown...
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Power of Mentoring: Carl D. West on Mentorship, Community, and Guiding the Next Generation
Carl West, a publisher, editor, CEO, father, and mentor. His story shows what’s possible when a young person has guidance, accountability, and a community that refuses to give up. His experiences are central to his book, The Power of Mentoring, and drive his ongoing efforts to help the next generation avoid the challenges he once faced. Carl West shares a personal reflection on coming of age in the Southside Growing up...
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Ladies of Virtue Raise $300K to Support Black Girls and Honor Chicago Defender Publisher Dyanna Knight Lewis Among Other Leaders
“Black girls defy the odds.” Those were the opening words from Jamila Trimuel, Founder and President of Ladies of Virtue (LOV), and they instantly grounded the room in purpose. Though the space was already filled with love, laughter, and an unmistakable sense of joy, Trimuel’s message reminded everyone why they gathered for the 2025 Leading With Virtue Cocktail Reception—to invest in the brilliance, resilience, and future of Black girls....
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Commissioner McCaskill Builds Momentum for Re-Election with Proven Results
Dr. Kisha McCaskill – Cook County Commissioner of the 5th District- has coalesced a well-rounded support base of residents, elected officials, Clergy leaders, and business leaders as she is primed, energized, and prepared for the stretch run of her election to a full four-year term of office. This morning Commissioner McCaskill submitted nearly 1700 signatures as she officially filed her candidacy for election to a full four-year term of office....
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Chicago Defender 2025 Man of the Year: Chief Quention Curtis Stepping Boldly into His Winning Season
Chicago Defender’s 2025 Man of the Year, Quention Curtis, is in what many would call his winning season. Though he’s had many accomplishments over the years, his most recent victory marks a new chapter: becoming the Fire Chief of the Village of Dolton. The Village hosted its regular Board of Trustees meeting at the Dolton Park District, but this gathering was anything but “regular.” It became a night of...
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