CHICAGO – Underscoring the state’s commitment to preserving and elevating sites that honor Black leadership, economic progress and cultural resilience, State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. helped announce a transformative partnership to restore and redevelop the historic Hotel Florence – along with other key buildings – within the Pullman State Historic Site on Chicago’s South Side.

“I am incredibly proud to be from and represent the Pullman community,” said State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago), who also represents the Pullman Historic District. “This forward-thinking partnership is not only a direct result of our responsible, community-centered budgeting efforts — it’s a momentous opportunity that will breathe new life into the Hotel Florence, transform the Pullman Historic Site and strengthen our broader community.”

Majority Caucus Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the governor outlined his budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2027:

“In a year when the Trump administration is set on passing policies that take services and opportunities away from those struggling to make ends meet, we in Illinois are focused on extending a lifeline to working families so they can thrive.

“The budget plan put forth today would preserve key state investments across affordable housing, health care, education and public safety – continuing to make life in Illinois safe, affordable and meaningful despite this federal administration’s chaos and cruelty.

State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement Tuesday regarding the passing of civil rights icon Rev. Jesse Jackson:

“The world has lost an icon, a true servant and a leader with the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson. To so many, he was a walking embodiment of Black History – but he was also a mentor and an example of what public service looks like.

“Every time I met with Rev. Jackson, he had a word of encouragement and wisdom. One of my fondest memories was being with him to witness a truly historic moment – the first Black woman nominated for President, right here in Chicago. As we took in that moment together, it’s something I will never forget.

“Rest well, Reverend. Our fight for equity and justice for all those economically oppressed – the fight you dedicated your life toward – continues.”

State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement after former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murder of Sonya Massey:

“While nothing can repair the pain Sonya’s loved ones have endured, this sentencing is a vital step toward the accountability the Massey family deserves. Without key evidence from body camera footage, this step toward justice might have been lost – highlighting the important work still to be done to repair trust and transparency in the criminal justice system.

“My heart is with Sonya’s family, friends and the entire Springfield community. The reality is the unjust use of force against Black lives is a serious and ongoing issue. May we continue to fight for justice and accountability until Sonya’s legacy is a world where calling for help from those sworn to protect and serve never brings fear, only safety.”