Lecture series to address local political, civic issues

The Future of Chicago lectures, which begin Sept. 30, address social, economic and political issues.

The University of Illinois at Chicago presents the annual “Future of Chicago” lecture series, which brings civic leaders to campus to examine issues with students and the community.

Topics focus on the social, economic and political conditions of the Chicago metropolitan region. Former Chicago alderman Dick Simpson, UIC professor of political science, moderates the series, hosted by the UIC department of political science since 1976.  Series co-sponsors are the UIC Institute for Policy and Civic Engagement and UIC Honors College.

All lectures are free and open to the public. Unless otherwise noted, lectures are from noon to 12:50 p.m. in Behavioral Sciences Building, Room 140, 1007 W. Harrison St. For more information, call (312) 413-3780.

Additional presenters will be announced later. Scheduled lectures include:

Sept. 30
“Homelessness in Chicago”
Hannah Willage, Chicago Coalition for the Homeless

Oct. 14
“The Future of Illinois and the 2016 Elections”
Jim Edgar, former Illinois governor

Oct. 21
“Reform in Chicago and Cook County”
Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, Cook County Commissioner

Nov. 6
“The Chicago City Council and the Future of Chicago”
Edward Burke, 14th Ward alderman

Nov. 30
“Reform of Cook County Government”
Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board president