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Civic Engagement

BGA’s Civic Engagement team works to bridge the gap between people and their government.

We foster knowledge, opportunity and agency with independent projects, such as databases and digital tools, educational events and community building. We also coordinate with and amplify the work of BGA’s Policy team and Newsroom.

What the Gov

Surviving the Pandemic: Black-Owned Businesses and the Paycheck Protection Program

Four Black-owned small businesses in Chicago’s West Side and west suburbs share their experiences with applying for federal funding during the COVID-19 crisis.
Apr 19, 2021 11:05 AM
What the Gov

What Are Your Wishes for Better Government in 2021?
Dec 23, 2020 11:11 AM
What the Gov

What the Gov: As Illinois Reopens, What Restrictions Remain for Weddings?

With state moving to phase four and easing restrictions, ballrooms and other large event spaces are still limited to 50 guests.
Jun 22, 2020 2:37 PM
What the Gov

What the Gov: Cook County Property Taxpayers Have Two Extra Months to Pay Their Bills

Property owners may still get their August bills in the mail soon but the county won’t penalize late payments until after Oct. 1.
Jun 8, 2020 6:00 AM
What the Gov

What the Gov: Will Illinois Implement Program Aimed at Avoiding Layoffs Amid COVID-19?

The federal government is offering funds to states with programs that encourage employers to temporarily cut staff hours instead of resorting to layoffs. But the agency charged with launching the program in Illinois says the state likely won’t be able to take advantage of a major piece of that support.
Jun 1, 2020 6:00 AM
What the Gov

What the Gov: Should Apartment Dwellers Notify Management If They Have COVID-19?

People who live in multi-unit residential buildings share more spaces with their neighbors than those who live in single-family homes. Do they need to inform management if they test positive for the novel coronavirus?
May 13, 2020 6:00 AM
What the Gov

What the Gov: What is the Future of Weddings in 2020?

Restrictions have limited the size of gatherings and even getting a marriage license isn’t easy anymore. So how can people plan for the biggest day of their lives during a pandemic?
May 11, 2020 6:00 AM
What the Gov

What the Gov: Should Employers Notify Staff If an Employee Has COVID-19?

The pandemic has caused employers to change how they do business to protect the health of customers and employees alike. What information should they share with staff if an employee tests positive for the coronavirus?
Apr 28, 2020 12:00 PM
What the Gov

What the Gov: Which Governments Are Looking Into Property Tax Help?

Amid pandemic, two suburban county boards have OK’d financial relief from late fees or interest payments for some homeowners while other county officials — including in Cook County — remain mum. A few lawmakers say they’d like to explore if the issue can be addressed statewide.
Apr 24, 2020 6:00 AM
What the Gov

What the Gov: How Are Governments Navigating Open Meetings in the Coronavirus Era?

To keep social distancing rules in place, Pritzker waived requirements that public bodies meet in person. What are they still required to do to make sure the public has access and can have their voices heard?
Apr 7, 2020 4:18 PM