CHICAGO – State Senator Willie Preston announced he is leading an economic, educational and cultural delegation to Accra, Ghana at the end of March, strengthening the relationship between the state and Ghana through commercial opportunity, cultural exchange, education partnerships and global connection.

“For centuries, the story of African Americans has connected Illinois and Ghana, and now we have the privilege and responsibility to bolster that connection,” said Preston (D-Chicago), chair of the Englewood-Ghana Sankofa Economic and Cultural Delegation. “This journey represents far more than travel; it represents a bridge between Illinois and Ghana, between commerce and culture, and between past and future.”

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Willie Preston is heading a measure that would require grocery stores offering digital coupons to have matching paper ones.

“This measure prevents discrimination by stores against people who are less technologically inclined or do not want to use digital coupons,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “Not everyone has a smartphone or wants to use their smartphone for every part of their life.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Willie Preston (D-Chicago) issued the following statement in response to the governor’s annual budget and state of the state address:

“As the Trump administration continues to strip our state of the programs and benefits our communities need and deserve, Illinois refuses to lay down.

“I commend Governor Pritzker for putting forth a budget that recognizes these unrealistic fiscal pressures by investing more resources to ensure those receiving SNAP benefits are able to navigate the changing requirements with ease.

“However, food insecurity continues to persist – which is why I am pleased the governor is proposing additional funds to enhance accessibility to healthy foods in food deserts. This goes hand-in-hand with legislation I am sponsoring to make food a right rather than a privilege.

“Over the coming months, I will continue fighting to uplift our families, protect our resources, and invest in neighborhoods that deserve opportunity and stability.“

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Willie Preston (D-Chicago), Senate Chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, released the following statement after the passing of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.:

“The Illinois Senate Black Caucus joins the nation — and especially Black America and the city of Chicago — in mourning the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. Our people have lost our reverend, and the world has lost a moral giant.

“Rev. Jackson’s voice reshaped American politics and expanded the promise of democracy for those long denied its protections. Through his unwavering faith and fearless advocacy, he reminded generations of Black children that “I AM somebody.” His life was a declaration that dignity is not negotiable, justice is not optional, and silence in the face of oppression is not acceptable.

“He challenged us to speak truth to the mighty powers that corrupt and oppress and to do so without compromise. That charge remains as urgent today as ever.

“As we extend our prayers and deepest condolences to his family, we also recommit ourselves to the work he began. The greatest tribute we can offer Rev. Jackson is not words, but action continuing the fight for civil rights, economic justice, voting rights, and human dignity.

“We mourn his passing. We honor his legacy. And we pledge to carry his values forward, forever.”