In a shifting policy landscape, workforce development organizations must advocate for equity and adapt to changing federal and state dynamics. Learn how to navigate challenges like the rescinding of DEI policies, funding freezes, and the need for stronger partnerships to ensure equal opportunities for marginalized communities.

Recent executive actions threaten workforce equity by dismantling programs that support job seekers, employment specialists, and inclusive hiring practices. These changes put essential workforce development initiatives and opportunities for marginalized communities at risk. Learn how Chicago Jobs Council is advocating for equity and fighting to protect access to meaningful employment for all.

In Quarter 2, we launched a Membership Committee to focus on how we nurture and support our members. As a result, we’ve implemented more intentional strategies to improve the onboarding experience for new members.

At CJC we are intentional about Capacity Building to equip the workforce development field.

CJC hosted another CEJA Chicagoland Grantee Convening on December 10th, also referred to as the CEJA Table, with 26 attendees representing 13 grantee recipients for the Energy Transition Navigators, CEJA workforce hubs, and Climate Pre-Apprenticeship programs.

Our member Workforce Convos series continues to spark critical conversations and generate actionable insights that shape the workforce development field. These events provide a platform for diverse voices—including policy experts, workforce leaders, and young adults—to share their perspectives and collaborate on solutions to pressing workforce challenges.

As we observe Poverty in America Awareness Month, it's crucial to recognize the profound impact of poverty in our communities. Nationally, 11.5% of the population—approximately 37.9 million people—live in poverty, facing significant barriers to securing family-supporting jobs and a hopeful future.

The situation mirrors the national landscape in Illinois, with 12.1% of residents living below the federal poverty line. In Chicago, the poverty rate is notably higher at 16.8%, affecting more than 450,000 individuals.

Pay transparency is a critical step toward creating equitable workplaces where fairness and opportunity thrive. With the recent amendment to the Illinois Equal Pay Act now in effect, Illinois employers with 15 or more employees must include pay scales and benefits in job postings, ensuring job seekers have access to essential information. This policy, championed by Chicago Jobs Council and our Skills Agenda Table partners, helps remove employment barriers and fosters accountability in hiring practices.

 At Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), our recent Workforce Convo highlighted key strategies for navigating this changed political landscape. While methods may evolve, our core values of equity, opportunity, and systemic change remain constant. Here are ten actionable takeaways from our conversation to help you stay mission-driven and impactful in the year ahead.

Chicago’s guaranteed income program has been cut from the city budget, a decision that impacts thousands of low-income households and derails opportunities to measure its long-term benefits. At the Chicago Jobs Council, we believe guaranteed income is a vital step toward creating economic equity and strengthening communities. It’s time for Chicago to prioritize sustainable funding for programs like these to ensure every resident has the support they need to thrive.