Friends,
With this past year's rollbacks of the Inflation Reduction Act and the attacks on climate action in general at the federal level, 350 Chicago’s work in Chicago and Illinois is more important than ever. We are deeply committed to advancing sustained local climate action, and we won’t stop fighting for a livable future.
As we’ve said in the past, we’re a small organization with big concrete wins. We’re working hard to scale our impact, and we are so grateful for your help in making this happen.
In just this last year, 350 Chicago,
Built on our success in getting Chicago to divest from fossil fuels by educating the public and electeds in Illinois about the need for the state to divest, resulting in both houses of the General Assembly introducing divestment bills.
Established broader statewide support for fossil fuel divestment, through our Climate Safe Pensions Illinois coalition, adding 31 organizations to the coalition with a goal of 100 members by May of 2026.
Undertaken a utility transparency campaign pushing for reform of Investor Owned Utilities to stop the utilities from charging ratepayers for anti-climate lobbying expenses.
Advanced clean energy policy in Illinois through our work with the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition, including the recently passed Clean and Reliable Grid Act and the Northern Illinois Transit Act.
Partnered with Third Act Illinois to organize the Sun Day Solar Fest to showcase solar power to hundreds of Chicagoans, which was covered by CBS News and other outlets.
Organized an Adopt a Block action with Third Act Illinois during the No Kings march in October, with our Flash Mob Dancers featured on The Daily Show.
Increased climate education through an ongoing climate speaker series with 14 episodes now available on our YouTube Channel.
Expanded our outreach efforts by gathering nearly 5000 signatures on postcards to support our campaigns while attending green events and farmers markets across the Chicagoland area.
Hired an Executive Director: our first full-time hire, allowing us to increase our effectiveness over the past year.
Scientists tell us that every fraction of a degree matters, and every climate action counts. As space for climate action closes at the federal level for now, local climate action is more important than ever in our state. We will continue to put in the work to fight the climate crisis, and we are grateful to have you with us.
And YOU – as part of a local climate group – are already part of the solution. If you’re looking for a way to get even more involved, please reach out! You can find more info & sign up to volunteer here.
In solidarity,
350 Chicago
PS – want to know more about what we’re up to? Check out our website here, and find & subscribe to our newsletter here!
In solidarity,
Team 350 Chicago
