If You’re Not Paying Someone’s Rent, You’re Part of the Problem

Evanston loves to congratulate itself. We voted 9 to 1 against Trump. You posted. You marched.

It’s not enough.

Neighbors can’t work. Families risk being put out in the street. Immigrants aren’t safe. In the 4th wealthiest city in the Midwest with over 200 law firms — outrage without action is a choice.

Before nonprofits and tax receipts, our less- privileged neighbors taught us how to show up for each other: groceries, court rides, spare coats, help with forms. Just simple, door-to-door help. That safety net, threadbare to begin with, will now break without you.

So DO SOMETHING.

Pledge monthly: choose a GoFundMe. Stock and clean an Evanston Community Fridge. Clear the needs list at the 611 Free Store. Join Evanston Skokie Grassroots Mutual Aid. Ask what’s needed, and deliver it every month- because this isn’t a one-and-done problem.

Want a tax deduction? Fine - but give *monthly* to Evanston Latinos (memo: “Sanctuary Evanston” for immigrant rent relief). Donate through Society of St. Vincent de Paul at St. Mary Church or St. Nicholas Church to support direct cash relief. Support OCAD Chicago’s deportee family fund. And lawyers - ICE is counting on the lack of representation - DONATE YOUR TIME.

The revolution will not be televised. It will look like safely housed, fed, healthy families. Breadwinners released from illegal incarceration.

All it takes is you.

Michele Hays
She/her/hers