A native of Chicago’s Southside and graduate of the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, Charise A. Williams has some ideas on things she’d like to see happen in and for the Illinois’1st Congressional District. Safer Communities, Healthcare, Jobs and Economic Development, Women’s Rights, and Student Debt Reform are a few of the issues Williams has prioritized in her campaign.
In addition, Charise believes some of her previous work experience Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) Deputy Director and Chief of Staff, Director of External Affairs for the Chicago Federation of Labor, Deputy Chief of Staff for Civic Engagement at the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office gives her unique insight on how to accomplish her goals if elected.
Crain’s Chicago Business recognized Charise as one of their 2021 Notable Black Leaders and Executives. She also serves on the boards for Emerald South and the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business IMPACT Alumni Association.
N’DIGO shares with its readers William’s focus on increasing economic development through employment, education, strengthening families/households, and community building. She is committed to ensuring that the 1st district will have all the resources and policies needed to build and sustain its community for now and future generations.
The primary election is on June 28. The general election is on November 8.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Charise Williams?
Charise Williams: I’m a public servant, south side native, and working mom who was raised by a public school special education teacher and U.S. Marine. As a child, I spent half my time on the Southside with my Mom and brother and the other half with my Dad, bonus Mom, and younger brother, all while attending high school at Mother McAuley. I grew up recognizing the stark differences in all my realities and now understand the inequity in those differences. As a young mother, I raised my son to be a leader, to make educated choices, and to always strive for his best. He is the single thing I am most proud of. It is because of my son that I am dedicated to my community so that we all can live in safe and thriving communities.
What was the moment that you decided to run for elected office?
I decided to run the moment I realized the 1st District wasn’t getting its share of federal resources. With the influx of federal funds available, we needed to ensure the first District wouldn’t be left behind. I’m uniquely skilled at writing legislation and securing and distributing resources equitably throughout municipalities and residents.
How have some of your prior positions prepared you for the role of potential Congresswoman?
Throughout my career, I have prioritized improving resources and opportunities for individuals and communities that have been historically overlooked. For example, improving transparency and awareness, making programs more accessible, and demystifying complicated legislation to ensure services were delivered promptly to people who needed them most.
I’ve had extensive statewide success in workforce development, grant funding, small business development, policy creation, teaching high school students, and as a community loan officer. My experience at the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority and the Chicago Federation of Labor gives me the unique skill set of successfully acquiring and distributing state and federal funding. A congressperson’s key responsibility is injecting resources into their District to create strong economic development and opportunities for growth. They must also draft and pass legislation that will benefit their District and the people they represent. I am the only candidate with experience in federal and state funding, including administering funding to multiple municipalities, Chicago wards, and communities so that local elected officials and community leaders can implement their ideas.
What are three of the most critical issues in the first congressional district you’d like to address?
1. Grow sustainable economic development- ensure the 1st district gets its fair share of the $1.2 trillion infrastructure investment and jobs act, and build a trade school campus.
2. Ease some of the burden of debt on taxpayers- Student debt reform, ease the burden of access to capital for small businesses, advocate for a livable wage
3. Support safer communities – provide additional funding for mental health services and violence prevention/intervention programs in schools and districts.
What is the unique thing that Charise Williams brings to the political arena?
My Master Degree in Public Policy from the University of Chicago, which I’ve applied to union and state governmental career. It is allowing me to create transparency in the first district and improve access to resources in a timely manner. In addition, I have a proven record of creating legislation and working with local officials.
Who are three political figures past or present that you admire?
I hold in high regards Shirley Chisholm, my Grandfather, Robert Williams, also known as “Big Daddy,” and Stacey Abrams.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I love karaoke! Even though I can’t carry a tune, I enjoy singing at the top of my lungs. My grandmother and mother sang in the choir, but that talent skipped me. My favorite opening song is Tina Turner‘s “Proud Mary,” and my closer will depend on the audience.
Best advice to the youth?
There is more than one way to achieve your dreams. Don’t let the fear of the future or the pressures of today ever stop you from dreaming. A “no” just means not right now.
Favorite quote or affirmation?
I have two:
“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”
“You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.”- Shirley Chisholm.
What’s next for Charise Williams?
Together, I want to build a new vision for the district and revitalize our communities. While I am in DC, my goal is to ensure the district does not look the same way in the next ten years. I dream of youth centers for young adults, a sprawling campus where adults can learn skills and trades.
To live without fear of my son leaving the house and a society in which all women have the free will to determine when they do or don’t want to have children.
For more information on Charise Williams and her platform, please visit www.chariseforcongress.com
