On Thursday, April 10th, 2025, the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) hosted its quarterly Action Council at Marquette School of Excellence, bringing together more than 115 community leaders, residents, and partners for an evening centered on connection, accountability, and forward movement.

This quarter’s Action Council focused on the power and importance of engaging youth voices in community conversations. Attendees were encouraged to look within their own circles of young people—whether family, neighbors, students, or mentees—and to create intentional space to listen to their thoughts, ideas, and concerns. The gathering reminded the community that investing in youth means actively making room for them at the decision-making table.

As part of this youth-focused theme, three elected school board members joined the event to answer pressing community questions. Community leaders raised concerns about potential budget cuts, overcrowded classrooms, and language barriers that continue to impact families across the southwest side. A particular emphasis was placed on the need for targeted support for Black students and their families. The dialogue was open and respectful, offering a valuable opportunity for school board members to hear directly from those most impacted by district decisions.

In addition to the youth-focused conversations, the Action Council served as a platform for SWOP to share updates on several key initiatives shaping their work across the community. These included:

• Reclaiming Chicago, a grassroots effort aimed at transforming vacant properties and public spaces into safe, vibrant community assets.

• The Parent Mentor Program, which equips parents to support classrooms and advocate for educational equity.

• Community Violence Intervention strategies, where outreach workers continue to engage those most at risk and offer pathways to safety and support.

• Ongoing work in Healthcare access and advocacy, especially for undocumented and underinsured families.

• Immigration support and policy organizing, to protect and uplift immigrant communities in the face of shifting national and local policies.

SWOP announced it is beginning the process of developing a new Quality of Life Plan for the community. Organizers encouraged attendees to support them with their input and guidance on what should inform the plan, emphasizing that the priorities must come directly from the people who live and work in the neighborhoods they serve.

With more than 115 community leaders in attendance, the April Action Council embodied SWOP’s commitment to listening, collaborating, and building power at the grassroots level. From amplifying youth voices to demanding accountability from elected officials, this gathering was a powerful reminder that when the community comes together, transformation is not only possible—it’s inevitable.

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