It’s so good to see Black celebrities in the news for positive things. Chance the Rapper consistently makes headlines in the music industry but this week his philanthropic endeavors are all people are talking about.
The Chicago bred rapper donated $1 million to Chicago public schools on Monday, March 6. The 23-year-old rapper gave a press conference announcing his donation from Westcott Elementary School in his old West Chatham neighborhood. Chance earmarked the funds for “arts and enrichment programming”, which are severely underfunded in public schools these days.
Last Friday, Chance the Rapper met with Chicago Governor, Bruce Rauner to discuss options in getting the $215 Million Chicago Public Schools need to finish out the school year. Of his meeting with the Governor, Chance said “Gov. Rauner can use his executive power to give Chicago’s children the resources they need to fulfill their God-given right to learn.” The rapper, whose 17-month-old daughter is not ready for public school yet said. “The governor gave me a lot of vague answers in our meeting and since has called me over the weekend. Our talks were unsuccessful. Gov. Rauner still won’t commit to give Chicago’s kids a chance without caveats or ultimatums.”
The current deficit that Chicago Public School System faces means that the school year will be forced to end 13 days earlier or lay off thousands of staffers.
Chance the Rapper challenged other private citizens to step up as well. “This isn’t about politics, this isn’t about posturing. This is about taking care of the kids. Everybody and their momma knows about what’s going on in Chicago. It’s constantly talked about, but we’re about to enhance the conversation,” the Chicago native said. “As a private citizen, as a parent and as a product of CPS, I’m asking that you guys join and fight with me, organize with me, mobilize with me, for the interest of the children of Chicago. This is the very beginning.”
The rapper’s donation was recognized by another very notable Chicago native, former First Lady, Michelle Obama. She Tweeted to Chance the Rapper commending his generosity.
Thanks @chancetherapper for giving back to the Chicago community, which gave us so much. You are an example of the power of arts education.
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) March 6, 2017
