With extensive experience in community development and civic engagement, Pat Dowell was elected Alderman of the 3rd Ward of Chicago in 2007. Previously, she served as a City Planner and Deputy Commissioner for Neighborhood Planning for the city of Chicago. She was also the Executive Director of several non-profits including the Near West Side Community Development Corporation, the Mid-South Planning and Development Commission, and Public Allies.
Since being elected in 2007, Alderman Dowell has had a consistent focus on constituent engagement, community-based development, and transparency. By attending and hosting public meetings, she maintains a regular presence in the 3rd Ward’s diverse communities to ensure everyone’s interests are represented. Additionally, a monthly newsletter is distributed to keep people informed about important resources and initiatives. She understands that this type of engagement will truly represent the residents of the 3rd Ward.
N’DIGO sat with Alderman Pat Dowell and discussed politics and her new political aspirations.
N’DIGO: What is your interest in politics?
Pat Dowell: I have always wanted to act in the community’s interest. I wanted to represent our community to receive all of the government’s benefits, rights, programs, and resources that we pay taxes for. I believe that everybody has value, whether in the high-income or low-income bracket. I try to add value to the communities I represent.
How long have you been the alderman from the 3rd Ward?
I have been an alderman since 2007. Before that, I worked in the trenches in community development to build houses and bring resources to the community. I worked for the Near West Side Community Development Corporation as Executive Director. I was the founding director of the Midsouth Planning and Development Commission.
As alderman of the 3rd Ward since 2007, what five things are your greatest accomplishment?
I am very proud of the rehab of the historic Rosenwald Apartments (47th and Michigan). I am proud of that because it provides housing for seniors and middle-income families and space for Black businesses. I am proud of my work in education. We built a new school in the South Loop, The South Loop Elementary School (16th and Dearborn). We brought a new school to the community. The Bronzeville Classical School at Root and State. We are building a recreational center at Wendell Phillips High School (39th and Giles). Phillips was the second worse school in the state, and now it has elevated to one of the go-to high schools in the 3rd Ward. I have helped create Black enterprise in the South Loop and the Bronzeville community that helps create wealth in the Black community and create jobs. We have built market-rate and affordable housing all through the neighborhood.
Let’s shift from your years as alderman to your run for the Secretary of State to Congress. Why did you make the change?
I was looking for a more significant way to serve my community. I wanted a more prominent role. The Secretary of State office was an opportunity. When it appeared that I did not get the slating from the Democratic Party, I rethought my candidacy. I came in second. Toni Preckwinkle voted for me. It was not wise to run against the party. I was disappointed and was struggling with my decision. Who knew Congressman Bobby Rush would retire? This (the Congressional race) is a better fit for me regarding what I can do for the community.
What do you think you can do as Congressman for the 1st district?
I am good at ensuring the district receives its fair share of federal resources. I understand money and what is due to our community. I have the experience to do that, to go into agencies to get our fair share. For example, we need to get total funding for transportation with the Red Line Extension. We have talked about that for years. The Red Line goes into the suburban part of the district. I am interested in dollars to help Black businesses/small businesses to grow. I understand the legislation.
How do you feel about being the first woman to ever serve from the First Congressional District?
I feel that it is time for a woman to serve in the seat. We have had phenomenal men representing the district – Bobby Rush, Charlie Hayes, Harold Washington, William Dawson, among them. It’s a great opportunity for me to speak to Congress and speak on behalf of our constituency using my leadership and compassion skills.
I will help legislate a way to get guns off the street. I will address the concerns of seniors and the mail system. We need better customer service for the district from the post office. I want to work on big and small things that affect our community.
What is the new mapped district for the First Congressional District?
The district boundaries have changed with the new map. The new district includes these wards – 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and part of the 10th. It consists of the 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, and 34th. The district extends to the suburbs, including Frankfort, Tinley Park, Markham, Posen, Mokena, and Robbins. It runs from Chicago’s Cook County to Will County. The community is larger geographically.
Who are your political role models?
The first role model I had was Congressman Shirley Chisholm. I liked her because she was influential in Congress in bringing back resources for New York. Secondly, Mayor Harold Washington influenced me. I had an opportunity to watch him work in building coalitions. I have tried to model that work ethic and style as chair of the city’s budget committee and move legislation through the city council like the Vacant Property Ordinance.
What is the state of Chicago politics as you see it right now?
The pandemic and its impact on our economy have had an effect. The discourse is not civil, and I think it is not just at the city level but also at the federal level, and people have found it challenging to work with each other. I think I represent a politician that can work with many different people. I want to be the Congressman who can bridge the gap between young and older people. I want to mentor young people interested in a career in politics and public service. I am looking to mentor just as I have done in my aldermanic seat.
How do you feel about the crowded field in the race?
I think Congressman Bobby Rush has provided us with an open seat. I am not surprised by the number of people in the race. The chair requires political experience that can work in the people’s best interest. We need someone to be a spokesperson on voting rights, gun violence, access to capital, education, and health care. I am the right person for this time. I welcome the opportunity.
