The violence that continues to devastate some of our most vulnerable and underserved neighborhoods is not just a standalone issue; it is a glaring symptom of systemic inequities. A profound lack of community resources, insufficient access to quality education, and a scarcity of meaningful employment opportunities leave many residents, particularly our youth, with few viable paths to a stable and fulfilling life. Without the tools and opportunities to succeed, too many of our young people are left feeling that criminal activity is their only option for survival.

This issue is not just a professional challenge for me as Commissioner—it is a deeply personal one. As a father, husband, and lifelong resident of Chicago, I have witnessed the far-reaching impact of this violence. The tragic murder of Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old girl who was shot and killed just 10 feet from my backyard, shook my family and me to our core. Hadiya’s senseless death became a defining moment in my life. It brought the urgency of addressing youth violence into stark focus and inspired my children to ask difficult but necessary questions: “What can we do to stop this? How can we make a difference?”

In the wake of this tragedy, I joined forces with other community members to found The It’s Time Organization (TITO), an anti-violence initiative dedicated to addressing youth violence in Chicago’s 3rd, 4th, and 5th Wards. TITO was established with the belief that prevention is the key to reducing violence and creating lasting change. Our mission is to equip young people with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive—not just survive.

Through TITO, we focus on a multifaceted approach to tackling violence at its roots. This includes:

• Youth Engagement Programs: Providing mentorship, extracurricular activities, and safe spaces for young people to build relationships, learn life skills, and stay out of harm’s way.
• Education Advocacy: Collaborating with schools to improve resources, support teachers, and ensure students receive the quality education they deserve.
• Job Training and Workforce Development: Creating pathways to gainful employment through job readiness programs, internships, and partnerships with local businesses.
• Community Investment: Advocating for increased funding and resources for underserved neighborhoods to strengthen families, rebuild communities, and foster hope.

The work of TITO is more than a response to violence—it is a call to action to create systemic change. Together with our partners, we aim to address the underlying issues that lead to violence and create a future where every child, regardless of their zip code, has the opportunity to grow up in a safe, supportive environment.

Hadiya’s story reminds us all of what is at stake. Her life, full of potential and promise, was cut short far too soon. But her legacy continues to inspire action and change. Through TITO and my role as Commissioner, I remain steadfast in my commitment to combating violence, empowering our youth, and building a brighter, safer Chicago for generations to come.