Advocacy Council

The Advocacy Council is a leadership training program, focused on sharing strategies and knowledge from experts to support the development of civic engagement and self-advocacy in communities across Chicago.

This program aims to lift up and encourage women (Councilmembers) who have been affected by breast cancer to advocate for themselves and others. After the initial training and with the support of Equal Hope staff and partners, Council members set out to lead advocacy workshops and focus groups within their own community.

Section I: Facts

  • Despite advances in medicine and technology, African American women in Chicago bear the burden of breast cancer deaths with a death rate nearly 40% higher than White women
  • The state of Illinois has failed to implement/fund two major initiatives that could have a significant positive impact on access to high quality mammography and treatment for all women
  • Local, state, and federal government are changing both laws and funding that affect access to care
  • The state budget crisis and threats to the Affordable Care Act/ObamaCare place insurance coverage at risk for millions of people in Illinois

Section II: What can I do about it?

You can advocate by voicing the concerns you have for yourself, your family and your community to the elected officials who are responsible for representing you. There are two great ways to get involved.

  1. Sign up for advocacy alerts below to receive regular updates on how you can get involved by writing letters, signing petitions, or attending a workshop
  2. Join the Advocacy Council and participate in all of our leadership development and advocacy work. The council meets every other month to discuss how best to engage the community in new learning activities and how to engage lawmakers around women’s health legislation.

Section III: Who can join the Advocacy Council?

While this program was initially designed for breast cancer survivors, any woman interested in becoming a member should contact us to learn more!

Section IV: What is the time commitment?

The initial training is about 3 hours long. The Advocacy Council then meets about once a month throughout the year to discuss upcoming programs and activities. The time commitment for the entire year is only about 20 hours, but can be more depending on your level of involvement.

Section V: What is the overall goal of the program?

The Advocacy Council is intended to support the development of a vibrant network of survivors and advocates in the South and West side communities.

For more information, contact Anna at 312-942-5599.

Section VI: Advocacy Alert Form