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.”

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Willie Preston is leading a new measure to require grocery stores that offer digital coupons to have matching paper coupons available for shoppers.

“Not everyone knows how to – or wants to – use a digital coupon,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “We are working to make it so people affected, often older adults, can still use paper coupons and are not excluded from savings.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Willie Preston (D-Chicago), Senate Chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, released the following statement after Sean Grayson was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murder of Sonya Massey:

“Sonya Massey should still be here today. Nothing about this sentence can restore what was taken from her family, her loved ones and her community. While Sean Grayson was sentenced to the fullest extent allowed under the law, this outcome does not offer true closure for a life unjustly taken.

“As we hold the Massey family close in our thoughts, we must also be clear that accountability alone is not enough. There is still important work to be done to confront the systemic failures that allowed this tragedy to occur and to ensure real trust, transparency and reform within our systems of public safety. The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus remains committed to that work.”

CHICAGO – Thanks to State Senator Preston’s advocacy, Oak Lawn Park District will receive $600,000 from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant to help continue ongoing improvements.

“Community parks are a key pillar to the health of a city and a child’s enrichment,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “This investment will build on our efforts to provide safe, holistic and modern public spaces for the people of the Sweet Sixteenth District. The 16th District is rich with parks and green space and I will continue investing in these beautiful places so families can enjoy them for generations to come.”