“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. From the moment guests entered the venue, it was clear they were in for a special evening. Volunteers and

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. Over the past ten months Commissioner McCaskill has performed record breaking achievements and has created a path of prosperity,

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 celebration as Mayor Jason House officially swore in the new Fire Chief before a packed audience. Community members

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, under the leadership of Great Lakes Regional Director, Dr. Willie C. Howard Garrett, proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Arthur R. Davis as the Regional First Vice Director of the Great Lakes Region. A distinguished leader, educator, and community advocate, Dr. Davis brings decades of experience in public service, education, and organizational leadership to this pivotal role. A proud Chicago native, Dr. Davis has dedicated his career to advancing the principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service. He serves as a professor, a Chicago

Alderman Ronnie L. Mosley Alderman of the 21st Ward—Chicago’s largest ward—and at just 35 is the youngest elected member of the council. A native son of the area he now represents, Alderman Mosley brings both a deep personal connection and a wealth of experience in policy organizing and civic engagement to City Hall. During his run for the Alderman seat, Mosley received the coveted endorsement from Governor JB Pritzker. Pritzker’s support came amid a significant surge in endorsements and ward support for Mosley, who has received the stamp

Dr. Clinton Boyd Jr., executive director of Fathers, Families & Healthy Communities, shares his personal journey, mission, and vision for empowering Black fathers and building stronger communities through healing, education, and faith (All Photos Courtesy of Dr. Clinton Boyd Jr.). As an advocate for uplifting Black men, I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Clinton Boyd Jr. in April at The Imperative of Investing in Black Men and Fathers in Chicago, an event hosted by the City Club of Chicago. In 2021, Dr. Boyd Jr. became the executive director

Dr. Shavon Arline-Bradley, president and CEO of the National Council of Negro Women, outlines her bold vision to fight economic injustice, political violence, and cultural erasure—while building a new legacy for Black women across generations (Photo: Instagram). For Dr. Shavon Arline-Bradley, seeing the dismantling of the Black Lives Matter Plaza about a mile from her Washington D.C. office was an actual and symbolic loss that was personal.   “It feels like a bulldozer coming down your heart,” she said. “It feels like we don’t have control.” In speaking of “we,” Arline-Bradley

For Daniel Ash, the work of social justice is more than a profession; it’s a calling rooted in personal experience and shaped by the transformative power of human connection. What began as a simple urge to help his hometown community in Ohio has evolved into a decades-long mission to build equity, amplify the voices of underrepresented individuals and uplift communities across Chicago. Today, Ash serves as president of the Field Foundation, where he leads efforts to support nonprofits that are reshaping the city, particularly on the South and West