Press Release

Chicagoans Elect District Council Members, Marking Historic Step in Police Oversight and Accountability

Date:

February 28, 2023

CHICAGO – Today, Chicagoans across the city will exercise their right to vote and make history by electing three community members to serve on District Councils in each of Chicago’s 22 police districts. The District Councils are an integral part of the city’s new police oversight and accountability framework, created by the Empowering Communities for Public Safety (ECPS) ordinance. These councils will play a vital role in building stronger connections between the police and their respective communities, addressing concerns about policing in each district, and developing community-based initiatives that promote safety and accountability.

“With the election of the new district councils in Chicago, we are one step closer to having a real community voice in how our communities are policed,” said Community Commission President, Anthony Driver. “This is the culmination of a struggle that spans over 50 years. The candidates who are elected today are making history, not only in Chicago, but in our nation.”

The newly elected District Council members represent a diverse group of community leaders who are committed to creating a safer, more just, and more equitable Chicago. “The District Council members represent a wide range of public safety and accountability perspectives and experiences,” said Damon Smith, Deputy Director of District Councils. “This is what makes the District Councils so powerful. The people of Chicago want those varied perspectives to ensure that all of Chicago is represented. This is democracy at its best.”