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Black Bench Chicago

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As we mark the United States’ 250th anniversary, we have to ask ourselves an honest question: is every vote truly equal? Gerrymandering isn’t just a technical term — it’s a tool that has shaped whose voices are heard and whose are silenced, district by district.

Right now in Texas, Alabama, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Mississippi, millions of our neighbors are watching new maps take shape. At Black Bench, we believe fair maps are the foundation of real representation.

Our vote is our voice, our power, and our legacy. Know your districts. Stay informed. Speak up. The work of building a truly equitable democracy continues every day. 🗳️✊🏾 by @blackbenchchi

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18 days ago

Today, we celebrate more than the opening of a new space on the South Side. We celebrate legacy, progress, and purpose.

As we honor Juneteenth, we recognize the enduring impact of President Obama’s legacy and the importance of creating spaces that empower, educate, and uplift our communities. The Obama Presidential center stands as a reminder that the work of building a more equitable future continues every day.

Today we also celebrate our Black Bench family—the leaders, advocates, and changemakers who are doing the work at the Obama foundation, creating opportunities, and making a difference in our communities.

Happy Juneteenth, and congratulations on the opening of the incredible Obama Presidential center. The legacy continues. ✊🏾🖤

#obamapresidentialcenter #juneteethcelebration #celebrate taken in Obama presidential center by @blackbenchchi

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a month ago

🎓✨ Save the Date! ✨🎓

Join us as we celebrate the 2025–2026 Black Bench Chicago Cohort and honor the next generation of Black civic and political leaders in Chicago.

📅 Tuesday, February 24
🕕 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 @bronzevillewinery

Come celebrate our graduates, connect with community leaders, and support the future of Black Bench Chicago. More details coming soon—mark your calendars now!

🔗 Learn more about Black Bench: blackbenchchicago.org by @blackbenchchi

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6 months ago

Over the last two months, the 3rd cohort dove deep into Black History and Philosophy in Chicago — exploring the roots, movements, and minds that shaped our city’s public affairs and cultural landscape.
From discussion on legacy, movements and our collective power, our speakers and modules reminded us that leadership is built on understanding where we’ve been to know where we’re going.
Grateful to our dynamic speakers, thought partners, and cohort participants who showed up ready to learn, question, and grow. The journey continues. 🖤
#blackbenchchicago #leadershipprogram #blackhistory #chicagolegacy #civicengagement #blackexcellence by @blackbenchchi

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9 months ago

In our city, helicopters hover over South Shore while ICE agents stalk families across the South and West Sides. The message is clear: they want us afraid, divided, and silent.

But we know better. Our safety is collective. Our resistance is shared.

Black and Brown communities have always faced state violence — and we’ve always fought back, together. This Know Your Rights guide is a tool for that fight: to protect our families, defend our dignity, and remind each other that Chicago belongs to us.

Save it. Share it. Stand together. taken in Chicago, Illinois by @blackbenchchi

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9 months ago

✨ Introducing the 3rd Cohort of Black Bench Chicago! ✨
We are honored to welcome a new class of Chicago leaders!

This cohort represents dedication, vision, and the next wave of changemakers shaping Chicago’s future. We can’t wait to see the growth, collaboration, and legacy they’ll create.

📣 Join us in celebrating the journey ahead — the bench just got stronger!

#blackbenchchicago #leadership #community #chicago by @blackbenchchi

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a year ago

Co-Founder Highlight 🖤
Our co-founder Ronnie Mosley shares why Black Bench is more than a program—it’s a movement. Rooted in legacy and built for impact, he’s excited to welcome the next cohort of leaders.
Apply by August 10th to join the journey.
#blackbenchchicago #foundersvision #NextGenLeaders #applynow by @blackbenchchi

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a year ago

Alumni Highlight 🖤
For these alum, Black Bench was just the beginning—the engaged network and supportive community formed through the cohort continue to open doors and create impact long after the program ends.
Be part of a community that lasts. Apply by August 10th.
#blackbenchchicago #leadershipincommunity #cohortconnections #applynow by @blackbenchchi

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a year ago

Alumni Spotlight ✨
Through Black Bench, these alum gained the tools, confidence, and network to take their professional growth to the next level.
Ready to level up your leadership? Apply by August 10th.
#blackbenchchicago #professionaldevelopment #blackexcellence #applynow by @blackbenchchi

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a year ago

Alumni Highlight 🎥🖤
Black Bench alum Jillian Carew credits the program with sharpening her advocacy skills, deepening her political impact, and expanding her voice as a leader. But beyond the professional growth, it’s the friendships that made the journey unforgettable—one even led to a wedding!
Black Bench builds leaders and lifelong bonds. Apply by August 10th to find your path and your people.
#blackbenchchicago #blackleadership #advocacyinaction #cohortconnections #applynow by @blackbenchchi

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a year ago

Alumni Highlight 🖤
Black Bench created space to grow, connect, and lead alongside a powerful network of Black professionals. The experience opens doors to new friendships, fresh opportunities, and lifelong community.
Ready to find your people and execute purpose? Apply by August 10th.
#blackbenchchicago #blackleadership #communityinaction #applynow by @blackbenchchi

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a year ago

Co-Founder Spotlight ✨
Black Bench was born out of a vision to equip the next generation of Black leaders equipped to serve their communities with purpose and power. Co-founder Alex Sims-Jones shares why this program continues to matter and why she’s excited for the next cohort.
A new chapter begins—apply today and be part of the movement. Click the link in our bio to apply today. Applications close August 10th
#blackbenchchicago #leadershipinaction #nextgenleaders #applynow by @blackbenchchi

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a year ago