Let’s face it: there is no better 2nd ward candidate for us to get behind than Darlene Cannon. When she ran against Braithwaite last year she got 48% of the vote, losing by only 71 votes. She was endorsed by Reclaim Evanston, Evanston Fight for Black Lives – Evanston, IL- Northside Democracy for America – Northside DFA – OPAL, …and us. She’s been active on the Equity and Empowerment Commission. She has the backing of many leaders in the 2nd ward and citywide, and widespread community support.
Think what a difference this would make to the equity and transparency initiatives to have Darlene in that seat instead of Braithwaite. Think about the police and city manager searches with Darlene there. This could be a watershed moment in Evanston politics.
While the city council will have to confirm the choice it is really up to Mayor Biss. There may be resistance ,but if we activate our members, and if we all have one clear consistent PUBLIC message that Darlene is the best choice with the strongest 2nd ward support then we have a good chance.
It’s going to take making a lot of individual calls to Biss and to our Council Members, and letters in the local newspapers. Assuming there is a public panel, we need to show up loudly and enthusiastically, signs waving in support of Darlene.
This is exactly the sort of fight Community Alliance for Better Government was created for : getting the voice of a Black woman who stands up for her ward and for those marginalized by race and poverty into a position of power in Evanston.
Let’s do it!