By: Ashmar Mandou

The Chicago Department of Public Health in conjunction with the City of Chicago unveiled A Safe Chicago for All, a new initiative designed to provide Chicagoans with the tools and resources to “take action and increase community safety.”

“Our work is based on the belief that a holistic approach to community safety which, rooted in collaboration across all sectors, is essential to eradicating centuries of racism and purposeful disinvestment and violence, so that together we can forge a path toward a safer, more equitable Chicago,” said Garien Gatewood, Deputy Mayor for Community Safety. A Safe Chicago for All focuses on raising awareness about the root causes of violence and how equity is being integrated into the city’s community safety efforts. It highlights innovative and evidence-based solutions, as well as the current efforts and investments made to increase safety.

“The launch of this initiative complements existing efforts to build a safer, healthier city for everyone,” said Olusimbo ‘Simbo’ Ige, MD, MPH, and Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health. “There is an 11.4-year gap between Black and white Chicagoans, and gun-related homicide is the second largest contributor to this racial life expectancy gap. This is a call to action for all Chicagoans, regardless of your zip code, to play a role in community safety.” According to the City of Chicago, the A Safe Chicago for All digital action hub will provide residents with information about victim services and street outreach programs funded by CDPH to support individuals at the highest risk of becoming victims or perpetrators. It offers a plethora of resources for community leaders and Chicago residents who want to learn more about promising community safety solutions and ways to advance health and racial equity. The hub features:

• Community resource guides for various neighborhoods

• An Introductory Guide to City Services for those who want to learn how to access city resources and take an active role in their community

• Suicide prevention trainings, mental health skills-building, harm reduction training, and more.

“A Safe Chicago for All is a city-wide initiative calling on partners and community-based organizations to work together for a safer, more peaceful Chicago,” said Claudia Rangel, Violence Prevention Networks Manager, Enlace. “We are inspired by individuals who are loving, passionate, empathetic, and dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in La Villita by prioritizing safety as one of our core pillars. La Villita is an essential part of the vibrancy of the City of Chicago. When safety is ensured for all, we can truly appreciate what our city represents. Our efforts are driven by the voices of our partners, community members, and staff, who are committed to building a peaceful Chicago starting with La Villita.” Stay up to date and access the latest available resources at chicago.gov/allsafe