Coalition calls for action on youth mental health and gun violence in Illinois during march on Near North Side

Brónagh Tumulty and Gabriel Castillo

1 hour ago

CHICAGO — Dozens of people took to the streets of the Near North Side Saturday in an effort to improve the lives of Illinois' youth.

Members of the Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership (CSPL) organized a march to call on lawmakers to address several issues affecting young people in Chicago and across the state.

These issues include access to mental health care and, often, exposure to gun violence.

Coalition members said justice was at the heart of their organization.

“We work with parishes, associations, unions. And so one of the things we're working on right now is offering more services to our youth,” said CSPL board member Rita Cardoso.

Saturday's rally follows the deaths of many young victims of gun violence. Like Ariana Molina, 9, killed in April in Back of the Yards, a neighborhood where the CSPL works hard.

“There, we are working for more services for young people. these are high-risk areas that have great needs,” Cardoso said.

According to Cardoso, it is vital to add additional mental health resources for youth in general.

“For example in the Proviso area. East Proviso Zone, West Proviso Zone. This is one of the areas where the youth suicide rate is high and significant. And we are working to ensure that mental health services are provided to young people,” Cardoso said.

Additional investments in youth programs and activities are also high on the agenda, which was part of Mayor Brandon Johnson's recently unveiled summer safety plan.

“Before this election, he committed to working with the CSPL. So we look forward to further discussion with him,” said CSPL Board Chairman Anthony Williams.

According to the latest CPD data, there have been 824 shootings in Chicago so far this year, up 10% from the same period last year.

Visit the Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership website for more information about the organization.