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South Siders Hope To Revive Block Clubs By Bringing Back Annual Convention

Mayor Lori Lightfoot At Block Club Convention
WBBM Newsradio?Rachel Pierson

CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Block Club Convention returns to Chicago's South Side.

Chicago's South Side is home to dozens of block clubs and those clubs' mission is simple: to improve the quality of life in neighborhoods.


"It's absolutely essential to keeping our community safe," said Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx.

Foxx is just one of several speakers who shared their appreciation for these clubs, which serve as a way for black residents to convene to keep tabs on crime, politics, development and other issues in their South Side neighborhoods.

"They're an essential partner to law enforcement but more importantly they're the best advocates for the needs in their communities," Foxx added.

"You love our community such that you would sacrifice your time, talent and treasure to keep our community safe." @KimFoxxforSA thanks neighborhoods for their work at the Block Club Convention. @WBBMNewsradio pic.twitter.com/9Qzyh6VPNp

— Rachel Pierson (@WBBMRachel) October 5, 2019

The Block Club Convention was put on hold seven years ago after Chicago's 6th District Police Department said resources were too tight.

Organizer Kweli Kwaza hopes that by reviving the event, these block clubs will continue to grow and work together.

Other speakers at Saturday's event included Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Father Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Church and Operation PUSH's Jonathan Jackson.