The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Policy Summit Live brings together policymakers, advocates, researchers, community leaders, and engaged citizens to discuss the issues shaping Black communities and the nation.
This event is free and open to the public.
Redistricting, Representation, and Black Political Power in Chicago
League of Women Voters Panel, 1:30 pm
In April 2026, a U.S. Supreme Court decision in Louisiana v. Callais opened the door to racist redistricting, raising new concerns about the future of voting rights protections and Black political representation nationwide.
In response to the ruling, Illinois lawmakers paused a proposed constitutional amendment intended to strengthen state-level Voting Rights Act protections, signaling broader uncertainty around how race can be considered in future redistricting efforts.
This timely discussion will examine the implications of the ruling for Black Chicago communities and explore how national legal shifts intersect with local issues, including demographic change, ward remapping, political representation, voter engagement, and disinvestment. Bringing together legal experts, advocates, organizers, and policy leaders, the panel will discuss what is at stake for Black political power in Chicago and identify strategies to protect equitable representation and democratic participation moving forward.
Celina Stewart is the chief executive officer of the League of Women Voters of the United States. She leads the century-strong voting rights organization in its mission to empower voters and defend democracy. She oversees the League’s operations, resources, and strategy in this defining moment for American democracy.
Elected in 2007, La Shawn K. Ford serves in the Illinois House of Representatives representing the 8th District. Rep. Ford is focused on social justice and disparities in employment, education, and the healthcare system. He has also worked to increase opportunities for ex-offenders, foster small business development, improve access to affordable housing, expand protections for our veterans, safeguard our environment and address our state’s fiscal health.
Frederique (Freddie) Desrosiers is the Director of Policy & Advocacy at Chicago Votes, where she leads legislative campaigns, coalition-building efforts, and statewide advocacy initiatives focused on expanding civic engagement and strengthening democracy in Illinois. Working at the intersection of policy, advocacy, and community organizing, she collaborates with lawmakers, advocates, and community leaders to advance equitable reforms that increase civic participation and build lasting political power.
Agnes Grey is the Director of Voter Education for the League of Women Voters of Chicago. She has long worked in voter advocacy and education, including fielding phone calls for the Election Protection Network and reporting issues Tennessee voters encountered at the polls during the 2016 presidential election, and spearheading Common Cause Georgia’s robust Election Protection field program during the 2022 and 2023 election cycles.