Press Release

15th Police District Council Responds to Recent Shooting in the Austin Community

Date:

August 17, 2024

Chicago, IL— As District Councilors representing the 15th District in the Austin community on Chicago’s Westside, we are deeply saddened and outraged by the brazen daylight shooting that occurred in our neighborhood on August 13th. This heinous act of violence shows a blatant disregard for human life, the rule of law, and the very fabric of our community. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families during this difficult time.

This senseless violence is a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive support from all levels of government to address the rampant violence plaguing our streets. We cannot continue to stand by as our communities are torn apart by the cycle of violence that seems to have no end. The time for action is now, and it requires a united effort from local, state, and federal authorities to stem the tide of wanton violence in our community.

As elected representatives of the district, we are committed to upholding both Public Safety and Police Accountability. However, we must acknowledge that while accountability is crucial, it cannot be our sole focus. We cannot allow ourselves to be quick to anger when instances of officer-involved misconduct occur, while simultaneously turning a blind eye to the black bodies that are being left lifeless on our streets. This is a harsh truth we must confront. We are perpetuating our own genocide when we fail to address the violence that is devastating our communities. It is time for us to come together, to demand better for ourselves, and to hold all those responsible for the safety and well-being of our communities accountable. We must break this cycle of violence and work toward a future where our streets are safe, our children can thrive, and our community can heal.

As Chicago prepares to welcome dignitaries from across the nation and around the world for the Democratic National Convention, the Austin community continues to live in fear, ducking bullets and mourning our dead. Chicago cannot claim to be a world-class city, ready to showcase its best on the global stage, while neglecting the people who give this city its soul. This stark contrast between the city’s polished image and the harsh reality on our streets is a tale of two cities—one of pomp and circumstance, the other of real human suffering. We cannot allow the spectacle to overshadow the urgent need to address the violence that is tearing our community apart.

We call on all stakeholders to join us in this fight. We need solutions that prioritize both safety and justice. Please join us Monday, August 19th at 11am on the site of the shooting at 5200 W Chicago Ave.We will be meeting at 11am calling for an end to this senseless violence. Together, we can create a safer, and a more just Austin for everyone.