Global Voices, Local Action

The “We Will Chicago” plan, formally approved by the Chicago Plan Commission earlier this year, is the first comprehensive citywide plan since 1966. It’s an expansive, 10-year plan to improve the lives of all Chicagoans, especially those on the South and West sides. Based on seven pillars, it addresses physical infrastructure and longstanding systemic issues like health inequity, environmental racism, income disparity, and access to housing.

To bring international perspectives into policy conversations, we hosted a series of events with the Metropolitan Planning Council and Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development when the plan was officially opened for public comment.

We connected Chicago leaders, including Chief Sustainability Officer Angela Tovar and Commissioner of Housing Marisa Novara, with their counterparts in Helsinki, Barcelona, and London. They shared how they are tackling similar challenges oceans away—from climate change to public safety to education. Participating civic leaders and residents had the rare chance to hear new ideas and solutions from other global cities and bring them to their own elected representatives. Private sector leaders joined as moderators, steering the conversations.

The Council’s ability to convene stakeholders who bring global perspectives to local issues is one of our greatest strengths. We are committed to this role, and as Brandon Johnson takes office as mayor of Chicago next month, we will continue our work to ensure all Chicagoans benefit from global engagement.