Illinois Needs to Protect Workforce Equity Now
Federal actions are jeopardizing the foundation of our workforce development ecosystem, putting both job seekers and service providers at risk. That’s why the Chicago Jobs Council (CJC) has quickly drafted a letter to the Governor’s office. We are advocating for immediate measures to ensure workforce equity and protect opportunities for all Illinois residents.
What We Have Done
CJC sent this urgent letter to Deputy Governor Andy Manar yesterday, highlighting the systemic challenges facing our partners and job seekers. We’ve outlined critical areas where state-level intervention can mitigate the harm caused by recent federal actions. We aim to initiate a meaningful dialogue with state leadership and collaborate on solutions to strengthen workforce equity and opportunity in Illinois.
Key Points from the Letter
Worker Protections Under Threat: The revocation of Executive Order 11246 removes anti-discrimination measures that have historically advanced gender and racial equity in the workplace. This rollback disproportionately impacts marginalized groups, creating unsafe work environments and barriers to securing and retaining employment.
Financial Risks for Community-Based Organizations: Federal directives to halt diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) activities jeopardize community organizations, with some losing 40-60% of their annual budgets. Many organizations face financial instability due to these directives.
Delays in State-Level Funding: Workforce programs reliant on state-administered funds, such as Illinois Works, CEJA, IL Youth Investment Program, and R3, are hindered by delayed contracts and payments. These delays force organizations to carry unsustainable costs, threatening their ability to serve job seekers.
A Call for Timely Funding and Streamlined Processes: We urge Illinois to prioritize efficient state funding mechanisms, reduce administrative burdens, and ensure timely payments to service providers. These measures are essential for the survival of workforce programs that equip Illinoisans with the skills they need to thrive in a competitive job market.
Stronger Together
We sincerely thank our partners who signed on to this letter. Your collective voice amplifies our advocacy and demonstrates the strength of our shared commitment to equity and opportunity. Together, we are driving the change Illinois needs.
We’ll keep you updated as we hear back from the Governor’s office and work toward scheduling a meeting. In the meantime, read the full letter below and stay tuned for more updates!
Thank you for standing with us as we advocate for a more equitable workforce development system. Stay tuned for updates!
