A Weekend in Service: Conversations, Community, and Cupcakes
This past weekend was a whirlwind — but it reminded me exactly why I do this work.
On Saturday morning, I brought together a group of elected officials for a conversation I organized around navigating Chicago politics. It was honest, focused, and full of energy for what’s possible in the next two years of District Council work. These kinds of gatherings are more than networking — they’re the foundation for coalition-building, strategy, and staying grounded in purpose.
Later that day, I attended the Campaign to Free Incarcerated Survivors of Torture (CFIST) Town Hall at the historic Sixth Grace Presbyterian Church in Bronzeville. The space was packed, and the panels were rich with insight, courage, and hope. I’m incredibly grateful to the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression for the invitation — and for their continued work to shine light on the stories and struggles of political prisoners across the country. If they keep inviting me, I’ll keep showing up.
On Sunday, I spent the morning immersed in policy research — focused on the Chicago Police Department’s traffic stop practices. Over the past two years, the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has heard from community members about the need for a new, fairer traffic stop policy. I’m currently finalizing a detailed policy statement that reflects those community voices, along with national best practices. That statement will be submitted to the Commission this week — and I’ll be sharing it publicly as well.
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While the policy work was heavy, I did manage to find small moments of joy and reflection in my day. I started my morning perched in a quiet corner of Jackalope Coffee & Tea House, a longtime favorite of mine. At 8:30 a.m., it was nearly empty — just a few folks, good music, and a light, peaceful vibe. The kind of spot that helps you get your thoughts together.
Later, I treated myself to a visit at a newer local business I’ve been meaning to try: A Sweets Girl. I saw recently they were serving hot sandwiches, so I stopped in and ordered the beef provolone — it did not disappoint. I followed it with a chai latte with coffee, and — because I couldn’t resist — an ube cupcake. I probably shouldn’t have, but hey… some days, you need a little sweetness.
I closed the weekend by attending a vigil and balloon release for Kaylah Love, a young woman whose life was taken on the West Side. A few of us from the District Councils came out to stand with her family and the community during this painful time. I told one of her loved ones, “Let us know how we can support you.” Because at the end of the day, we are One Chicago.
After the vigil, I had the opportunity to visit the Rutues Center for Business and People Development, a beautiful new space recently opened on the West Side by District Councilor Deondre Rutues, Ph.D — an emerging bright star in this space. We shared great conversations, laughs, and fellowship over food. It was a perfect way to close a whirlwind weekend.
I try to keep a strict rule: never be too tired for good company, good laughs, and good food.
These are the moments that fill the work — some hard, some healing, and some full of joy and community.
Thanks for reading. Let’s keep showing up.
