Welch, House Democrats Mark Historic July 4 with Efforts to Realize America’s Promise in Illinois
WESTCHESTER, Ill. – As the United States prepares for a historic July 4 marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and House Democrats are recognizing ways in which Illinois continues to deliver on the promises of our founding and chart a better path in our state.
“Our nation’s 250th birthday is an important day for us and for our country—and that has nothing to do with a politician’s ego, or nostalgia for some imagined version of the past. It’s a recognition of the efforts throughout our history—and efforts that continue today—to fully realize the vision of a nation of the people, by the people, and for the people,” Welch said. “Every chapter of our history has been fleeting; what has been consistent is hope, thanks to people who have organized, marched, fought, and legislated to create a brighter future. That guides us every day in Illinois—because Illinois is America. And when we take charge of the things we can control, we can continue to advance a vision of what our country was meant to be and what our country can be.”
At the beginning of this legislative session, Welch challenged his colleagues to meet this moment with decisive action, and House Democrats have responded with impactful legislation making the American Dream more attainable, more affordable, and more equitable. These efforts include:
Major investment in affordable homeownership, with $500 million in state funding to support new home construction, downpayment assistance, and more.
Protecting and expanding voting rights by passing the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowering Act. This ensures every eligible high school senior is offered the opportunity to register to vote, realizing Rev. Jackson’s vision of young people with a diploma in one hand, and a voter registration card in the other.
Protections for new Americans and individuals subject to racial profiling by Trump’s lawless agents. In the wake of unprecedented raids targeting legal citizens and immigrants alike, Welch and House Democrats delivered a new law protecting day care centers, hospitals, and other places where everyone should feel safe. Welch also led an effort to put legislation on the governor’s desk outlawing Trump’s detention centers in residential neighborhoods—like the Broadview facility that has disrupted life for local residents.
Vocational training, college financial aid, and new affordability measures to help families afford groceries, crack down on junk fees, and make back-to-school shopping more affordable.
