My father was an incredible man. Born in the Jim Crow South, his family immigrated to Ohio when he was a teen. After the birth of my two older siblings, he became extremely sick and fell into a coma. He awoke a year later with complete hearing loss — but my dad never let that stop him.

He dedicated himself to making sure his children would have a better life than he did. To keep the lights on and food on the table, he worked three jobs my entire childhood. But he still made time to get me ready for school and take me to lunch.

His sacrifice, love, and determination made me the person I am. So today, I'm celebrating him and all the other amazing fathers and men who give so much to their families.

Thanks,

— Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot