Jan's Plans & Pans - October 31, 2023

Dear John xxxxxx,

It has been 24 days since Hamas’ horrifying terrorist attack on Israel, in which more than 1,400 Israelis were killed and over 5,400 injured. Hamas also captured over 200 hostages, including several Americans. Jewish communities around the world are in shock, grieving, and scared of the increased antisemitism and violence that have been spurred by the war. Israel has a right to defend itself and its citizens in accordance with international law.

At the same time, Gaza is in the midst of an unprecedented humanitarian disaster with conditions worsening by the hour. Reports estimate over 5,500 Palestinians have died in Gaza and tens of thousands more wounded. Fuel is urgently needed to operate water purification plants in Gaza to ensure access to potable water which is already in short supply.

The human cost of this war is staggering. It is time the US and its allies help facilitate a humanitarian pause in fighting to allow additional food, water, medicine, fuel, and other aid into Gaza. Hamas must immediately and unconditionally release all hostages. Israel must take all possible measures to avoid further harming civilians. A wider regional conflict must be prevented. Hamas can and must be stopped to ensure long-term peace in the region, but, at this time, a humanitarian pause is critical to preventing unprecedented disaster and human suffering in Gaza, Israel, and around the world.

I will be sure to keep you updated with the latest developments.

Be well,

Schakowsky Speaks with CBS 2 Chicago About Breast Density and Breast Cancer Risk

Too many women have received an ‘all clear’ after a mammogram only to discover later that cancer was hidden by their dense breast tissue. Women with dense breasts are four to five times more likely to get breast cancer than those without dense breast tissue. 

We must strengthen access to additional testing, to ensure that women with dense breasts can know for certain that they are cancer-free. I am a proud cosponsor of Rep. Rosa DeLauro's Find It Early Act to ensure all health insurance plans cover screening and diagnostic breast imaging.

Schakowsky Attends Naturalization Ceremony at Chicago Botanic Garden

On Monday, I had the honor of congratulating and welcoming 123 new citizens who have come to the United States from 44 different countries! As a first generation American myself, I was thrilled to be there for this special day.

Last Chance: Register for the 2023 Congressional App Challenge!

My District Office helped a constituent receive his green card after a years long process

“I want to express my sincere gratitude for the invaluable assistance and support Rep. Schakowsky’s office provided through my immigration journey. Their tireless efforts in advocating for my case were instrumental in making the achievement of receiving my green card possible. Their dedication, responsiveness, and understanding of the importance of my situation made a significant difference in the outcome. I deeply appreciate the time and resources Rep. Schakowsky’s office dedicated to ensuring a positive resolution.

"Receiving my green card is not just a legal status; it represents a new chapter in my life filled with opportunities, stability, and the ability to contribute even more to the community I now call home. Your support played a crucial role in making this dream a reality.” - Saab

Assistance for U.S. Citizens in Israel 

If you or someone you know is in Israel and needs assistance returning home:

• Submit a Privacy Release Form in order to open a case with my office. This form tells the Department of State that we have permission to be assist you.
  • In the description box please include all relevant details about the situation, such as current location and the full names of everyone in the group. Once we have received the case, we will send this information to the Department of State.
• Submit the Department of State's Crisis Intake Form.
• Enroll in the Department of State's Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
• Call the Department of State directly at 1-833-890-9595 or 1-606-641-0131

Please monitor the Department of State's website for the most up-to-date information as the situation is evolving and changing quickly.

Sign Up for the Affordable Connectivity Program

Thanks to President Joe Biden's Infrastructure Law, families are gaining access to the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare, and more. Eligible households can receive a monthly discount for internet service and a one-time discount for a personal tech device.

The Federal Communication Commission's Affordable Connectivity Program provides eligible households $30/month off internet bills, in addition to a one-time discount of up to $100 on personal devices.

To find out how to take advantage, visit GetInternet.gov.

Passport Renewal

Current processing times for passports are: 10-13 weeks for routine and 5-7 weeks for expedited. These times are subject to change and are posted on the Dept. of State Website.  Please apply well in advance of your travel date – if your travel date is sooner than the current processing times, you may not get your passport in time for travel.

Please remember that emergency in-person appointments at the Chicago Passport Agency are intended for emergencies and availability is not guaranteed unless it is a life or death emergency! These appointments are not and have never been intended for routine renewal. If you have upcoming travel you should NOT plan on receiving an appointment at the Chicago Passport Agency. Passport renewals are intended to go through the mail. 

Did you know that many countries require your passport to be valid for several months beyond your date of travel? Depending on your destination, validity requirements can vary from 3 to 6 months beyond the date of travel! You can check the requirements for your destination on the Dept. of State Website under "International Travel" and "Country Information".

If you have planned travel and have a pending application that may not arrive on time, or if you need an emergency appointment at the Chicago Passport Agency, the Constituent Advocates in my District Office are happy to help! Please call the office at 773-506-7100, or you can open a case with my office online.