Belt supports equal opportunities for Black students

CENTREVILLE – In efforts to address the inequalities in Black      youth education, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) is highlighting legislation signed today that will provide Black children equal opportunity in the classroom and workforce. The legislation is part of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus’ plan to rid Illinois of systemic racism.

“Quality equitable education is imperative for the development of Black children and children living below the poverty line across Illinois and the nation,” Belt said. “Access to a quality education is one of the most effective tools we can use to combat poverty in Illinois’ Black communities.”

The measure addresses disparities in Black students’ education. To ensure all students, especially Black students have access to the highest quality courses available, schools will now automatically enroll students in the next level of advanced coursework if they meet or exceed state standards in that subject matter – including Advanced Placement courses.

To make sure Black history stays a part of American history, the legislation creates an Inclusive American History Commission to reform the Black history curriculum and curriculums regarding other minority groups.

In order to help Black students meet universities’ acceptance requirements the legislation requires school districts to add two years of laboratory science and foreign language. It also requires one year of intensive computer literacy in high school curriculum and for high schools to offer at least one elective computer science course.

“Accessing higher education remains difficult for Black students, especially at four-year institutions,” Belt said. “Requiring schools in this state to provide the necessary courses to get into these colleges and universities helps all students, regardless of race.”

House Bill 2170 was signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker on Monday, March 8. Various provisions of the law will take effect over coming years.

Belt: Reserve a time to visit Cahokia Mounds

COLLINSVILLE – With Cahokia Mounds Interpretive Center once again open to visitors, State Senator Chris Belt (D-Centreville) is encouraging residents to reserve an appointment before visiting the center.

“Cahokia Mounds is a historic staple of the Metro East and St. Louis area,” Belt said. “With spring just around the corner, now is a perfect time to plan a safe trip to one of the area’s oldest attractions.”

The Cahokia Mounds Museum Society is a not-for-profit organization created in 1976 to support the historic site. Within the more than 2,000-acre site lies the preserved archaeological remains of the most sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north of Mexico.

Often referred to as the Cahokia Mounds Museum, the Interpretive Center highlights the archaeological and anthropological research that has taken place since the site’s discovery, with the goal of informing and educating the public through its exhibits, programs and special events.

“If you haven’t visited Cahokia Mounds, you’re missing out,” Belt said. “We have the remains of an ancient civilization right here in our backyard, not many people can say that. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes. You will do a lot a walking when you visit.”

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources operated site is located 7 miles from East St. Louis in Collinsville and is open seven days a week from dawn until dusk.

Visitors should call 618-346-5160 to schedule an appointment time for free admission to the site’s Interpretive Center. Appointment times are available each Thursday through Sunday beginning at 9 a.m. with the last appointment time at 4 p.m.

For additional facts and information on the state historic site, visit cahokiamounds.org.

Belt and Pritzker speak on Criminal Justice reform

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) was joined by Governor JB Pritzker Thursday to speak about the comprehensive criminal justice reform package signed into law last month.

“Although these reforms should have happened long ago, this is still a remarkable first step in creating fundamental change in our state,” Belt said. “I’d like to thank the governor for visiting the 57th District to show his support for this landmark legislation in communities that will feel the effects of this legislation most.”

Following months of public testimony in numerous Senate committee hearings, the new law was written in the months following the tragic death of George Floyd and in response to the nationwide calls to address structural racism in the United States.

Belt, along with other members of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, created a four-pillar policy approach to address the issue. The four pillars resulted in legislation to address criminal justice, health, education, and economic access– which was sponsored by Belt.

“This law will lead to increased accountability and transparency for law enforcement,” Belt said. “I’m proud that Illinois has taken this step toward justice and progress.”

The provisions of the law include better police training and accountability, a ban on the use of chokeholds, increased training in crisis intervention and more mental health screening for officers. “The law also replaces Illinois’ cash bail system, which often traps the poor in jail, with a pretrial detention system based on risk of flight and danger to the community.”

The measure was signed into law late last month. Many provisions will phase in over time or be enacted after a transitional period in the coming years. Body cameras for law enforcement will become mandatory by 2025. Additionally, bail reforms take effect January 2023.

Belt highlights state plan to expand vaccine access in St. Clair County

CENTREVILLE – As Illinois’ vaccination efforts continue, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) is highlighting a state partnership with Touchette Regional Hospital to ensure equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine in St. Clair County.

“My top priority always has been, and will continue to be, the assurance that the underserved communities in the 57th District have access to this vaccine,” Belt said. “The partnership with Touchette Hospital will not only provide that access, but also the trust needed to reduce residents’ reluctance to receive the vaccine.”

The new partnership between the state and Touchette Regional Hospital will help ensure that underserved communities, which have been the hardest hit by COVID-19 have access to the vaccine. The program also aims to reduce vaccine hesitancy in underserved areas by providing residents the ability to receive vaccines more quickly from trusted providers.

“I’m grateful for any additional support the state can offer during this pandemic,” Belt said. “The faster we get these vaccines into arms, the faster we can go back to some level of normalcy.”

The state will provide Touchette Regional Hospital with approximately 300-500 vaccine doses per week, in addition to the allocated doses the state distributes to existing health care partners in the district. Vaccines are available by appointment only.

To find additional information about vaccine availability, including locations and eligibility, visit www.coronavirus.Illinois.gov.