Calendar
Explore events and opportunities to engage with We Will Chicago.
About the Global Voices, Local Action: International Cities Connect on We Will Chicago Series
This event is part of a seven-part series on We Will Chicago, hosted by the Metropolitan Planning Council, Chicago Council on Global Affairs, and the City of Chicago. Each event in the series will feature a panel presentation of international and local city experts, along with an interactive participant workshop to provide feedback and input on the plan’s draft policies. This is the first citywide plan in more than fifty years - don’t miss your chance to engage with fellow Chicagoans on strategies and ideas to improve the city’s future! Check out the schedule of events based on the We Will Chicago Plan pillars here.
Thursday, June 9, 2022 | 11:30 AM - 1 PM: Housing and Neighborhoods
For all Chicagoans, having a safe and affordable place to live is critical. Your home and neighborhood offer not only shelter but also the opportunity to lead a healthy and enjoyable life. The overall well-being of residents and the entire city depends on the presence of thriving communities anchored by housing. Stable and affordable housing must be located in areas that have accessible options for transportation, places to shop, open spaces for recreation and leisure, as well as venues for entertainment.
Join the Metropolitan Planning Council as we explore international models that advance the goal of stable, affordable, and well-connected housing for all. You will hear from global voices on successful initiatives and City of Chicago leaders on the relevant policies included in the We Will Chicago draft framework plan. These policies and your input can help lead to more livable communities. Heather D. Parish, Executive Director of The Albert Pick, Jr. Fund, will moderate the conversation.
Speakers include:
- Juan Sebastian Arias, Deputy Director of Policy, Mayor’s Office, Chicago
- Commissioner Marisa Novara, Department of Housing, Chicago
- Desislava Ivanova, Chief Expert of European Projects, Dupnitsa
Upcoming Metropolitan Planning Council and Council on Global Affairs Events
Thursday, June 23, 2022 | 12 PM- 1: 30 PM: Arts and Culture
Art has the potential to build stronger, more vibrant communities. As critical factors in helping make a neighborhood a place, art and culture can transform communities, contribute to economic development, build relationships, and provide programs and services that create stronger urban environments. The impact of art is undeniable, making an investment in art and culture vital to advance Chicago as a city where creative residents and businesses thrive.
Join the Arts Alliance of Illinois as we explore international models that advance the goal of supporting and growing artistic work. You will hear from global voices on successful international initiatives and from City of Chicago leaders on the relevant policies included in the We Will Chicago draft framework plan. These policies and your input can help lead to more livable and creative communities.
Speakers include:
- Commissioner Erin Harkey, Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, City of Chicago
- Laia Gasch, Senior Advisor of Culture and Creative Industries, Mayor of London, United Kingdom
- Claire Rice, Executive Director, Arts Alliance Illinois
*The remaining dates are as follows, but exact times will be determined at a later date.*
Thursday, July 28, 2022: Environment, Climate, and Energy
Thursday, August 18, 2022: Public Health and Safety
Thursday, September 15, 2022: Lifelong Learning
Thursday, October 20, 2022: Transporation and Infrastructure
Thursday, November 10, 2022: Economic Development