Greetings, Illinois Proctor Family,  

The Movement for Black Lives reminds us to remember Black August, a month to remember those who fought for freedom for Black People in the United States.  In August, we are encouraged to observe and honor the rich tradition of Black resistance against anti-Black violence and systemic oppression. We know that Black and Brown communities have been hit harder by death rates from this global pandemic.  We know that there is a clear correlation between environmental injustice and susceptibility to COVID-19. We know that there is a clear link between economic inequality and pollution.

We also know that there are actions we can take now to advocate for equity and environmental justice, which will save lives!  

In tandem with a global pandemic, we are living through increased extreme weather threats around the world. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration reported that this past July was Earth’s hottest month on record! The WHOLE planet!

What does this mean for us as Black residents living in the state of Illinois? What does this mean for us as Black people of faith? What does this mean for us as people of African descent committed to equity and justice? 

The mission of the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, Inc. (SDPC) is to nurture, support and mobilize African American faith, civic, corporate and philanthropic leaders to address critical needs of human and social justice within local, national and global communities. SDPC seeks to strengthen the individual and collective capacity of thought leaders and activists in the academy, church and community through education, advocacy and activism.