Workforce Convos "Building an Equitable Chicago: Policy Solutions to Bridge the Racial Wealth Divide"
This week, we hosted our first Workforce Convo, featuring distinguished guest panelists Misuzu Schexnider, Cory Muldoon, and Tif Simmons. The discussion was dynamic and thought-provoking, focusing on critical efforts to bridge the racial wealth gap. Despite the promising programs and pilot initiatives being considered, our conversation underscored the significant work that remains, particularly in addressing the deeper systemic issues exacerbating this gap in Chicago.
As panelist Cory Muldoon noted, the racial wealth gap is slowly narrowing nationally. However, the "Color of Wealth in Chicago" report and a recent Chicago Tribune article reveal that Chicago is not experiencing the same progress. The panelists and guests attributed this stagnation to persistent segregation in the city’s housing and job markets.
While we highlighted efforts to level the playing field and provide equitable access to quality jobs, it became evident that more than these initiatives are needed. Attendees pointed out that many existing programs must be utilized more due to a lack of awareness. We discussed strategies to ensure that these resources reach everyone who needs them. Additionally, we scrutinized the effectiveness of solutions like tuition reimbursement, which may not be accessible to those struggling with upfront costs due to other financial responsibilities such as childcare and housing.
Another significant focus of the conversation was policy. While implementing policies is crucial, there was a strong consensus that financial education is equally important. We explored how to shift mindsets around trusting the banking system, especially in communities where trust has historically been low.
The questions raised from this discussion were profound, and we shall continue to have conversations exploring practical policy solutions and ideas for issues affecting the workforce development ecosystem.
Event Panelist
Misuzu Schexnider is a Program Director of Financial Security in the Inclusive Economy Lab and leads our guaranteed income work and partnership with the Illinois State Treasurer's Office. She has also managed IEL projects on opportunity youth, the future of work, summer youth employment, and access to postsecondary education. Misuzu was formerly an associate program officer at Generation All, an initiative of the Chicago Community Trust that seeks to revitalize neighborhood public high schools. Prior to that, she was an English teacher at North Lawndale College Prep High School on Chicago's west side and at Naperville Central High School. She holds an MPP from The University of Chicago's Harris School and a BA in English and Secondary Education from Northwestern University.
Cory Muldoon is the Quality Jobs Program Director at the Inclusive Economy Lab. He has served as Chief of Staff at Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, Deputy Director at Public Allies Chicago, and Director of Organizing at One Northside. He has focused his career on delivering results to communities impacted by long-term disinvestment and structural racism. Collaborating with business, government, philanthropy, and community stakeholders, Cory played a key leadership role in launching innovative youth workforce programs, creating transitional jobs for returning residents, crafting state policy, and investing tens of millions of dollars into communities across Chicago and Cook County.
Tif Simmons is a Regulatory Compliance thought leader with over 20 years of experience in the field of internal audit and quality improvement. Tif has worked with numerous organizations serving in various roles- such as- a Contract Monitor, Program Evaluator, Quality Improvement Coordinator, Quality Assurance Manager, and Risk Advisory Sector Manager for a leading Accounting Firm. Tif has passionately helped organizations develop vision/mission statements, corporate policies, performance results descriptions, and training processes. Currently, as a direct report to the Division President at Home Care, a leading provider of comprehensive home care and support services, Tif oversees hiring, training, and compliance activities for over 6,000 employees.
Event Photos
