May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Click here to take a look at profiles of figures in Asian American history.

Keron Blair shares a heartfelt prayer for the new mayor of Chicago, envisioning a future where all people are safe, prosperous and treated with justice and equity while also encouraging us to hold our leaders in Chicago accountable. Read Keron's prayer here. 

Chicago's mayoral runoff election coincides with Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination and “Beyond Vietnam” speech anniversary, highlighting the city's struggle with race and inequality. The outcome will shape the city's future direction on critical issues.

On January 15, 2023, a diverse mix of congregations gathered at the Faith Temple Church of God in Christ in Evanston for an interfaith service to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This MLK service was more than a celebration of a civil rights leader. It marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for civil rights and reparations.

Profiles of influential figures in Black history for Black History Month, including Rosa Parks, John Lewis, Fannie Lou Hamer, and Bayard Rustin, among others.

For those of us who have been doing police accountability and police reform work for some time, the answer seems clear: policing in this country is a racist and white supremacist institution founded to perpetuate violence upon black bodies, and it continues to function that way today.

Read this article to learn about a National Day of Racial Healing celebration and healing circles hosted by Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation Greater Chicago. Be sure to register for these events!

All 220 United States House Democrats, along with 47 Republicans, voted to approve legislation to protect the rights to same-sex and interracial marriage, in the Respect for Marriage Act which passed on July 19. Although 157 Republicans voted against it, this legislation is the most pro-LGBTQIA+ vote in Congressional history.

CRS has signed on in support of the EQUAL Act. This legislation would end the disparity between crack and powder cocaine in sentencing.

This year, CRS is excited to host a virtual screening of Free Renty on June 16. Additionally, check out our member congregations and other organizations Juneteenth events.

Gun violence is a public health crisis. It is an issue that needs to be addressed comprehensively. Though there are many reasons people commit acts of gun violence, no longer can we sit idly by and watch precious lives be taken prematurely because of racialized and politicized hatred.

During Lent, CRS member congregation First United Church of Oak Park chose to focus on music and liturgy from the Black, Indigenous and POC (people of color) traditions with a campaign entitled “Fasting from Whiteness.”

We share this letter written by Women’s All Points Bulletin, a Black women-led organization in Chicago, imploring the United States Government to work for the immediate release of Brittney Griner who is being held hostage in Russia for allegedly violating a criminal code of the Russian Federation.

Emmett Till remains a symbol of resistance and hope in American history. The U.S. Senate passed the Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act on March 7, 2022. Legislation named for the 15-year-old Chicago boy lynched for allegedly whistling at Carolyn Bryant in Mississippi now heads to President Joe Biden’s desk.

There must be greater outcry and call for US government intervention to free Griner and all detained citizens. We also demand equitable attention and energy for Griner’s immediate release. Here are three ways you can take action.

In this month of Black History, as we reflect on the accomplishments and achievements of Black people, we must remember the lives lost to systemic white violence. We must go farther than remembering, we must dedicate ourselves and our resources to building a world committed to Black living and Black thriving as opposed to Black death.

Community Renewal Society believes voting rights are intrinsically connected to our work to eliminate barriers due to racism, poverty, and LGBTQIA+ rights and reparations, two of our most recent platforms issues. Meaningful legislation that compensates the descendants of enslaved Africans and allows all LGBTQIA+ people to fully enjoy the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness can not pass without supportive lawmakers.

Community Renewal Society responds to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s call to put our faith in action by hosting an annual assembly on the holiday commemorating his life and work. Hear about the history of and need for reparations, and commit to supporting CRS' work in 2022.

Community Renewal Society (CRS) member congregations, board members, volunteers and staff joined with 17 community organizations to protest this life-threatening situation and to deliver 62,250 bottles of safe and clean water

In light of today’s verdict and as we prepare to gather with friends and family members for Thanksgiving, we share a reflection that provides theological, socio-political, and historical insight on the verdict by CRS Board Member and Criminal Justice Professor, Natasha Robinson Esq.