Chris Welch is the Speaker of the House for the State of Illinois. He is the first African American to hold the position since January 13, 1921. He represents District 7. He is hosting the premier party for the DNC convention to showcase Black Excellence in Bleu.
Seven Black House speakers from across the country will be the evening’s special guests, including Speaker Carl Heastie, New York; Speaker Adrienne A. Jones, Maryland; Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross, Maine; Speaker Joanna McClinton, Pennsylvania; and Speaker Don Scott, Virginia. Speaker Welch is married and has two children.
I had dinner with the speaker to learn more about him and his goals. His career path has ranged from media to lawyer to politician.
N’DIGO: What kind of stories did you cover as a WGN reporter?
Chris Welch: I was the weekend assignment desk editor. I worked four days a week. At the same time, I was a John Marshall Law School student. I had a four-day week.
How did you leave journalism to go into politics?
I left journalism to become a lawyer. I worked for 20 years in a mid-size law firm, Sanchez, Daniels & Hoffman Limited Liability Partnership. We represented mostly insurance companies, like State Farm and All-State.
My first political position was as an elected school official in Proviso Townships, Proviso East and West. While on the board, I opened Proviso Math and Science Academy, which is now one of the best high schools in the state. I was on the school board for 12 years.
How do you feel about the newly elected school board in Chicago?
I was a driving force for the upcoming elected school board. It’s a system that makes you accountable to the people. One of the first legislations I engaged in was Chicago’s elected school board. It remained the only school district in the state without an elected school board. The school board will be accountable to the citizens of Chicago, not just the mayor.
What does it mean to you to be the first Black Speaker of the Illinois House?
It means several things to different people. It is a very honorable position—the honor of a lifetime. Realizing we can achieve the position means the world to Black people in the state.
What do you want to accomplish?
When it is all said and done in our 200-year history, I want to look back and have it said, what did he do for Black people? I would be honored if they looked back at my time and compared it to Mayor Maynard Jackson of Atlanta and stated that I had a significant role in creating Black wealth.
How do you view the media as they cover politics and Black politicians in particular?
The media plays an essential role, but the coverage could increase.
At the DNC convention, you will have one of the best parties.
What do you want to accomplish?
I want to showcase Black of excellence. People don’t know that we have seven Black speakers in the country. I want to showcase Black excellence at the political level. And who is coming to the party? Senate presidents, Senate pro teams, Lieutenants, Governors, and all elected officials.
How do the Republicans and Democrats work in Springfield?
We could work better. Our problem is that politics is so divisive on the national level. What we see right now is extreme navigation.
What do you think of Governor Pritzker being the vice president?
It would be good for Illinois. Having a direct White House connection would be excellent. I see nothing but positives. We have done well working together.
How will the election of Kamala Harris enhance your position?
We will have a White House connection. She shares our values and beliefs, which we can support nationally, namely civil rights and women’s reproductive rights.
What do you want the public to know about you being the house speaker?
I am a first, but not last. I am here because I know my why. It’s about helping the people in the state.
