Missing ISU student Jelani Day has been found, suspect still at large

CHICAGO — The Illinois Senate Black Caucus reacts to the finding of missing Illinois State University Student Jelani Day:

“To the family and friends of Jelani Day, our hearts ache to hear this news and we wish you peace and comfort as you grieve during this tragic time. It’s extremely devastating to see a family lose a loved one and our thoughts and prayers are with you.

While we’re all mourning the loss of Jelani we must turn our attention to the suspects who are still at large. We encourage the Bloomington Police Department to thoroughly continue the investigation to bring justice and peace to the Day family. We understand this is a very difficult job and investigations take time but we want to emphasize the lack of urgency in identifying missing people of color. The term for this is ‘missing white woman syndrome.’ We saw an example of this during the tragic death and missing case of Gabby Petito. Gabby’s story controlled the airways, while Jelani’s was covered by very few. As a caucus, we haven’t come this far in fighting for equity for black children and families for them to not receive it. Jelani and his family deserve justice and we want it now.”

CHICAGO – A new law supported and co-sponsored by State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) will help provide affordable and safe drinking water to more Illinoisans.

“Every person has the right to affordable and safe drinking water,” Jones said. “Cost should never be a barrier to obtaining basic needs.”

CHICAGO - A new law co-sponsored by State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) will remove a huge barrier that minorities and marginalized people face when obtaining state level employment. 

“Illinois is a very diverse state, and state agencies should reflect that diversity,” Jones said. “Panels that incorporate interviewers who share a similar background with the applicant will help ensure the best people are hired.”