We’ve all learned the Cause-and-Effect Theory as early as elementary school; so why is Chicago ignoring the theory when it comes to violence in the city. Failing schools, unemployment, poverty, and lack of political fortitude to deal with the root cause of Chicago’s violence continue to have a deadly effect on Chicago’s families.

I appeal to Illinois’ governor and Chicago’s mayor to hear; to hear the loud ringing effects caused by the social and economic disparities that distinguish Chicago’s neighborhoods. Let’s join Pope Francis and fight poverty to end the deadly effects of violence in the city.

La Shawn K. Ford
State Representative, 8th District