Small Business CONNECT Roundtable and Networking Event
On October 2, 2024, Tracy Parsons and Mikal Washington from the Equity and Engagement Department participated in the Small Business CONNECT Roundtable and Networking Event, hosted by the Campus Community Compact to Accelerate Social Justice. This event brought together local business owners and economic development organizations to discuss the post-pandemic landscape for small businesses, addressing […]
Academic Night at Booker T. Washington
On September 26, 2024, Tracy Parsons and Mikal Washington from the Equity and Engagement Department, in addition to City Council member, Will Kyles, attended the Family Academic Night at Booker T. Washington Elementary School. This event brought together parents and children to foster meaningful connections with school staff and enhance academic support. Parents received valuable […]
Champaign Community Coalition September Recap
On Wednesday, September 11th, 2024, the Champaign County Community Coalition convened for its monthly meeting at the Holiday Inn Conference Center from 3:30 to 5 PM. Local law enforcement agencies provided valuable insights into recent crime trends and shared updates on upcoming events and initiatives. The Youth Assessment Center offered an overview of its services, […]
Champaign Diversity Advancement Program (CDAP) Certification Event
On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, Mikal Washington and Michelle Morrison from the Equity & Engagement Department attended the Champaign Diversity Advancement Program (CDAP) Certification event at the Champaign Public Library. An Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) representative guided CDAP vendors through the process of becoming State-certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and provided insight into […]
“Be Yourself Ball”
On Sunday, Sept 22, 2024, staff from Equity & Engagement Department hosted a resource table at the Hitnhomeboy “Be Yourself Ball” at the Illini Union. This event was designed to educate and entertain about the culture of Ballroom which originated in queer Black communities. Attendees participated in a variety of contests involving dance, outfits, and impersonations.
2024 Immigrant Welcome Awards
On Sunday, Sept 22, 2024, City staff from the City Manager’s Office and the Equity & Engagement Department, were excited to participate in the 2024 Immigrant Welcome Awards hosted by CU Immigration Forum. The 11th Annual Immigrant Welcome Awards Ceremony and Celebration was a resounding success, honoring outstanding individuals and organizations that have made significant […]
Immigrant Business Showcase
On Saturday, September 21, 2024, City staff from the Equity & Engagement Department hosted the first ever Immigrant Business Showcase on Market Street as a part of the City’s involvement in Welcoming Week 2024. The event showcased immigrant-owned businesses, featuring food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities. The event was a resounding success, drawing a […]
2024 Pride Fest & Parade
On Saturday, September 21, 2024 City Council Members Matthew Gladney and Michael Foellmer, in addition to City staff from CMO, E&E, and PW attended the 2024 Pride Fest and Parade hosted by Uniting Pride of Champaign County. The City Pride Float was one of 70 floats in the parade and the City hosted a resource […]
Pride on Market Street!
On Friday, September 20, 2024, City staff from the Equity & Engagement Department supported Pride on Market Street! This event was sponsored by United Pride of Champaign County as a part of their week long calendar of events for Pride Fest. This event took over Market Street with vendors, food, and performances, partnering with Seven […]
Friday Forum + Conversation
On Friday, September 20, 2024 staff from the City of Champaign were invited to speak at the University YMCA Friday Forum + Conversations. This weekly event is designed to engage the community in thought-provoking discussions about current events. Tom Yu, City Attorney and Janel Gomez, Community Relations Manager, highlighted the City’s involvement in the Champaign […]