Independent Voters of Illinois - Independent Precinct Organization
Regarding Dr. Timuel Black
We have lost a giant. After a short stay in hospice, Dr. Timuel Black passed away at the age of 102. Dr. Black was more than a historian, he was living history.
He was part of a generation that moved from Alabama to Chicago; He fought in World War 2; He marched with Dr. King in Chicago, and organized more than 2000 people to attend the march on Washington; He was instrumental in the election of Harold Washington as Chicago's first black mayor; and he was a stalwart supporter if the IVI-IPO because he believed in the work we do to bring change to our politics.
But outside all of that, Tim was also a professor - one who could inspire students and colleagues alike. He was a loving husband. He was a devoted friend.
It is no wonder that at his last birthday, a drive-by celebration, it brought hundreds of people, including politicians, former students, activists, and religious leaders alike. There will never be another quite like Tim, and for that and his loss, we are deeply saddened. But we will take joy in the life that Tim led, and the example he set.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. Rest in power, Tim. We love you.
IVI-IPO Elections are Here
IVI-IPO is recruiting candidates for election to the State Board of Directors! Directors are elected in July and serve a one-year term beginning July 28th. The Board of Directors meets 10-12 times each year and members are required to attend at least half of the meetings, as well as work on fundraising/ projects throughout the year.
Candidates may submit a biography/platform statement which will be included with the ballots. Maximum statement length is noted below for each office, but brevity is encouraged. No editing will be done. Statements exceeding their maximums will be cut at the limit. To be eligible to be elected to the Board, Candidates' membership dues must be received no later than June 23rd. Any member in good standing may nominate another member (or themselves) for any of the following offices:
STATE CHAIR (500 words)
ADMINISTRATIVE VICE CHAIR (300)
PROGRAM VICE CHAIR (300)
SECRETARY (200)
TREASURER (200)
MEMBERSHIP CHAIR (300)
POLITICAL ACTION CHAIR (300)
LEGISLATIVE ACTION CHAIR (300)
COMMUNITY ACTION CHAIR (300)
NATIONAL AFFAIRS CHAIR (300)
or for one of three AT-LARGE DELEGATE seats (200 words). Per the IVI-IPO Constitution, the purpose of the at-large seats, "is that an attempt shall be made to enable representation of otherwise unrepresented constituencies." In addition to these positions elected by the entire membership, each chapter and members not residing in geographical areas of chapters elects representatives to the Board and the Political Action Committee. If you wish to run for a chapter position, please contact your Chapter Chair or the office.
Candidates may not run for more than one position on the Board.
Nominations, including biographies and/or statements, must be received by Wednesday, June 23rd. Method of submission is by email to iviipo@gmail.com either as a Word document or in the body of the email. The information requested on this form is required to complete your nomination and does not count toward your maximum word count. Dates may be subject to change by board action. Ballots will be sent July 1st and must be received in the IVI-IPO Office by 5pm, Thursday, July 22nd.
Thank you for your participation and good luck!