Diverse Coalition of Labor Unions Endorses Bring Chicago Home
Labor Coalition Representing Hundreds of Thousands of Workers Urges Chicago Voters to Vote Yes on Ballot Question 1 on March 19
CHICAGO – In a show of solidarity to bring Chicago families and children out of the cold and into a home, a diverse coalition of labor unions has come together to endorse Bring Chicago Home. This endorsement signifies the growing consensus among Chicago's labor force and voters on the critical importance of voting YES on Ballot Question 1 on March 19.
Unions endorsing Bring Chicago Home include:
AFSCME Council 31
American Federation of Government Employees Local 648
American Federation of Government Employees Local 704
Chicago & Midwest Regional Joint Board of Workers United
Cook County College Teachers Union Local 1600
Illinois Education Association
Illinois Nurses Association
Painters District Council #14
Leading the endorsement are unions representing a wide array of professions, from federal employees to educators, healthcare workers, and more. Each union brings a unique perspective to the campaign and all share a common understanding of the urgent need to fund affordable housing and address homelessness.
The broad union support for Bring Chicago Home reflects a deep understanding among labor leaders and members that homelessness and housing instability are not just social issues, but also critical economic and workforce concerns. Stable and affordable housing is essential for a thriving workforce and a prosperous city.
"Working in the public service, AFSCME members see the impact of homelessness on our communities. They see the damage done to the lives of so many and to the very soul of our city," AFSCME Council 31 Executive Director Roberta Lynch said. "Chicago will be a better place for all to live if we approve this referendum to Bring Chicago Home."
“Painters District Council #14 stands behind Bring Chicago Home,” said Painters District Council #14 Treasury-Secretary Joe Rinehart. "Our union supports these efforts to invest in the wellbeing of our City and urge everyone to vote YES on March 19."
"Environmental injustice and climate migration are some of the root causes of housing instability, and as we face these growing issues, we need to take concrete steps to protect people from them,” said Nicole Cantello, AFGE Local 704 President. “Our union supports fair, affordable housing opportunities for all our neighbors—homelessness affects everyone in the City and Bring Chicago Home provides a necessary revenue stream to address it.”
“We wholeheartedly support Ballot Question 1 and believe it’s a crucial step towards transforming childrens’ lives by addressing homelessness and expanding affordable housing options,” said Al Llorens Illinois Education Association President. “A yes vote on Ballot Question 1 is a vote for the future of our children!”
“Safe and affordable housing contributes to healthier communities, which is beneficial for all. By addressing homelessness, we are also investing in the future, ensuring that coming generations have the stability that is the foundation for success in life and work,” said Assistant Manager of Chicago and Midwest Regional Joint Board of Workers United Carlos Ginard. “Lastly, support for affordable housing reflects our broader commitment to fair labor practices and social justice, as housing is a critical aspect of workers’ rights and dignity.”
The Bring Chicago Home initiative is a critical measure that aims to create a new fund for affordable housing and essential services by restructuring the Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT). This change is expected to generate over $100 million annually by increasing the one-time tax paid on properties bought for $1 million and reduce it for anyone buying a property under $1 million. As a result, 93% of Chicago homebuyers will see a tax-cut. Bring Chicago Home will not affect property taxes or increase rent prices.
As the campaign gains momentum, the message from Chicago's labor community is clear: a YES vote on Ballot Question 1 is a vote for a stronger, more equitable Chicago. The diverse coalition of unions rallying behind this initiative sends a powerful message about the unity and resolve of Chicago's workers in addressing one of the city's most pressing challenges.