General Meeting: October 29

This is what democracy looks like: zombie costumes.  For the treat of local activism without any of the tricks, come to BA's general meeting on Thursday at 7pm in the Community Hall at First Trinity (643 W 31st St.).  Nothing's scarier than a world without social justice!

North and South Sides unite for better busing!

The CTA31/CTA11 Crosstown Bus Coalition has made waves!  Riding a rising tide of support, the group—made up of allied activists from the 11th and 47th Wards—packed the house at the Chicago Transit Authority’s October 14th board meeting.  The diverse crowd ranged from Chinatown senior citizens to Aldermen Patrick Thompson and Ameya Pawar. Most were clad in distinctive yellow t-shirts declaring their passion for reclaiming public transportation in Chicago (see picture).

Mr. Deng, leader of the Pine Tree Senior Council, said, “I am so proud to represent the Chinese community to express our need of the #31 bus. I will continue to fight until they give us a satisfied response.”

Alderman Thompson of the 11th Ward spoke about how extensively the 31st Street corridor has change since the 1990s, when the route was cut.  The thriving business district at 31st and Morgan, plus the construction of beautiful new harbor and park facilities at the 31st Street Beach, mean that restoring the route makes good sense. He requested a feasibility study or test route extending from Ashland Avenue to the Museum Campus.

Of course, our political and crosstown allies have only made Bridgeport Alliance’s position stronger.  As Ruby Pinto, president of Bridgeport Alliance, said, “In both the 11th and 47th wards, we deserve better. It's a joy to unite with our friends to the north in such an important effort.”

People Power: Mark Your Calendars

Are you a Chicagoan who cares about public transportation?  Please join Bridgeport Alliance and its allies in the 31/11 Crosstown Bus Coalition, which is fighting for restored bus lines on the North and South Sides.  We're turning out as many folks as we can to the CTA's October board meeting.  Arrive at 9:30am at the CTA Headquarters (567 W Lake St.) on October 14.  If you're in Bridgeport and you need a ride up, message us.

Bonus:  Free t-shirts!

Be there or be walking (instead of riding).  

Bridgeport Alliance General Meeting: July 30

BA's next meeting will be on Thursday, July 30, at 7pm in the Community Hall at First Trinity.  Yep, it's hot and sticky outside, but if injustice doesn't stop, why should we?

Cold drinks shall be had!

Death, Poverty, and Chicago's 1995 Heat Wave

You might be uncomfortable during these dog days of summer, but do you remember the deadly heat wave twenty years ago?  Check out this fascinating interview with sociologist Eric Klinenberg about how over 700 people came to die during one week in Chicago.  Race, class, and gender, as well economic history, all worked together to create the kind of social isolation that kills senior citizens.

Please consider checking in on your elderly neighbors on hot days this summer.

A Statement In Response to Recent Violence in the 11th Ward

Recently an attack took place in Taylor-Lauridsen Park in the 11th Ward of Chicago. 

Members of our community were deeply saddened to hear of the attack that took place in Taylor-Lauridsen Park. In these times of great inequity and disparity, many of our neighbors are facing immense struggles and frustrations. Budget cuts, increased poverty, lack of transportation, and decreased funding for public education and other services all take their toll on the lives of our neighbors and our families. All of these hardships are related to larger systemic racism, economic inequality, and corporate greed.

We at Bridgeport Alliance believe that we must strive to look past our fears and differences and make an effort to see each other as friends and partners in shaping the world we want to live in. In the face of this tragedy we hope to foster a much needed discourse about the ways in which structural racism hurts us all. 

Bridgeport Alliance General Meeting: May 28

BA's next meeting will be at 7pm in the Community Hall at First Trinity.  We know spring is in full swing, but we're looking forward to seeing you!