Rep. García Draws Concern on Chicago's Return to School

Statement

Congressman Jesús "Chuy" García issued the following statement regarding the return to in person education in Chicago:

"While we value education and the opportunities it offers students from all walks of life, it is critical to make educational decisions with a health consideration during this global pandemic. I echo the concerns from many educators, parents, and students in my district troubled by the in-person return to the classroom. Chicago, like many urban centers, continues to suffer from an alarming number of COVID cases and deaths. Latinos comprise the largest share of virus cases in the city, and unfortunately, many of the COVID hot zones are found in my district. It is no coincidence that working-class, Latino, and Black families are disproportionately impacted during this pandemic - the same families who represent our educators, parents, and students.

"We cannot jeopardize their lives for the sake of expediency or academic gains. It is our responsibility as a community to do everything in our power to protect one another during this time to prevent further spread by limiting person-to-person contact. We must focus our efforts on controlling the virus and creating the appropriate and safe working and learning conditions guided strongly by health experts and listening to those most impacted. "

Source