About the Candidate
Name: Ebony Lucas
DOB: Dec. 4, 1975
Family: Garland (husband), Christina (28, daughter), Kamau (19, son), Kamillah (18, daughter), Caleb (16, son), Christian (5, son)
Occupation: Attorney
Political Experience: King College Prep Local School Council
Website: lucasfor4th.com
Candidate Statement
I am Ebony Lucas and I am running for 4th Ward Alderman because now is the time for residents to choose a proven leader.
4th Ward residents deserve a representative who will empower them to be engaged. I am a voice for change and will take action for the schools, affordable housing, equity in commercial development, policing and other issues facing a very demographically diverse ward.
We have seen the investment in new development but Bronzeville has no place to buy socks and underwear, the South Loop has a high school with only 75 seats for the growing population, and Hyde Park lacks affordable housing. I understand what it’s like to live in an area where options to buy groceries are limited, places to have a healthy meal are scarce, and gun violence makes it scary for my children to ride their bikes. We need responsible decision makers that will allow our city to flourish and grow while maintaining a high quality, affordable cost of living for its current residents.
I am a mom of children who attend Chicago Public Schools, a small business owner in Bronzeville, and a real estate attorney. In the last 14 years I have helped 100s of distressed home owners find affordable housing solutions and save their homes. I know what it is like to work hard to meet your family's basic needs.
We cannot afford to continue another four years of the status quo. We deserve to live in a city that contributes to the success of everyone, instead of catering to the chosen few. We must choose elected officials who will roll up their sleeves and not just coast along because of their political connections.
My track record as an attorney, mom, and active community member show that I have the community relationships and dedication that allow me to develop and implement strategies to improve the quality of life for 4th Ward residents.
When I become Alderman, YOU become Alderman. On February 26, 2019, vote for me, Ebony Lucas, for your Alderman of the 4th Ward.
Candidate Q&A
What is your vision for this office?
I have a 4-point vision for the 4th Ward and Chicago: (1) establish a responsible budget that prioritizes schools and stabilizes property taxes to preserve affordable housing for seniors, millennials, working and middle class families; (2) create a strategic development plan for the 4th Ward to create vibrancy and jobs in every community; (3) collaborate with the Chicago Police Department to bring proactive, community based policing; and, (4) engage and empower 4th Ward residents through programs like participatory budgeting and encouraging participation in park and library advisory councils.
What is the most pressing issue facing constituents, and how can you help address it?
The most pressing issue in the 4th Ward is a lack of leadership that will engage residents, be a voice for change and take action for the schools, affordable housing, equity in commercial development, policing, and other issues facing a very demographically diverse ward. My track record as an attorney, mom, and active community member shows that I have the community relationships and dedication that allow me to develop and implement strategies to improve quality of life for 4th Ward residents.
