Illinois quick hits: Obama to address DNC; 1908 Race Riot designation

Harris to rally in Milwaukee during DNC

Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate are expected to hold a joint rally next week in Milwaukee while the Democratic National Convention is going on in Chicago.

According to the New York Times, Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will host a rally Tuesday at the same arena where the Republican National Convention took place. The Times also reported that former President Barack Obama will address the DNC on Tuesday.

1908 Race Riot designation

An Illinois congresswoman is praising President Joe Biden for designating the site of the 1908 Springfield Race Riot as a national monument. U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski said she led a letter to the president calling for this action in December.

During the riot, a mob of white residents attacked Springfield’s Black community, burning down homes and businesses. In the aftermath of the riot, the NAACP was formed.

Cannabis loans announced

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has announced the recipients of $5.5 million in loans through Round II of the Cannabis Social Equity Loan Program.

Through the program, 23 qualified, licensed social equity dispensaries are receiving $240,000 direct forgivable loans financed by Illinois taxpayers. Applicants were selected based on factors including social equity status, financial need, financial resources, and progress toward becoming operational.