Chicago

Darlene and Jesus

Jesus (right), pictured here with Darlene, created a list of scholarships in Illinois that don’t require a Social Security number, which means that undocumented students can apply. He’s considering a law career, but for now he’s getting a wealth of experience in understanding individuals’ interactions with the legal system.

AFSC's Youth Peace Building and Justice Program are assisting undocumentd students in four Chicago Public Schools as they fill out their Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals forms. Many students and families of immigrant youth have been uncertain of the risks and the costs connected to applying for DACA status.

To date, the program has assisted over 50 youth and family members with applications and trained five college interns to assist at the school. The medical program coordinator at one high school expressed her appreciation in the following e-mail:

Mosaic heart by Chicago youth

The Mosaic Coop of AFSC Chicago's Youth Peace Building and Justice program has created this Valentine's Day treat.

The Mosaic Coop of AFSC Chicago's Youth Peace Building and Justice program has been working hard creating a Valentine's Day treat. They are combining their craft of a beautiful mosaic heart and fair trade chocolate. So for $20 plus shipping, we can send one your way. The proceeds will go towards a scholarship fund for undocumented college students at a local high school. 

To get your Valentines Day heart and chocolate, contact Darlene Gramigna.

Darlene and Jesus

Jesus (right), pictured here with Darlene, created a list of scholarships in Illinois that don’t require a Social Security number, which means that undocumented students can apply. He’s considering a law career, but for now he’s getting a wealth of experience in understanding individuals’ interactions with the legal system.

It takes time, collaboration, and work on many levels to bring real change.

But Darlene Gramigna and Jesus Palafox know that the complexity of the work ahead doesn’t mean it’s not worth struggling for a better way.

In three decades on different fronts of the city’s struggle for social justice, Darlene has learned that Chicago is a place where “people will fight right back” against oppression.

Nato summit protest

Demonstrations protesting NATO and its wars in 2009 during NATO's 60th anniversary summit in Strassbourg, France. The sign held by the demonstrator says, Too much armor, Too little brains. Extinction welcome.

While heads of state plan for continued fighting in Afghanistan, we will be working on campaigns to bring soldiers home and create a future free of wars and occupation.

NATO COMING TO CHICAGO