To protect incarcerated individuals’ access to communications with their loved ones, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. led a measure through the Senate to ensure they can’t be charged a fee to receive mail.
“When you have limited communication and contact with loved ones, every moment of human connection matters,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “No one should be able to make a profit from the disenfranchisement of others.”
Under a rule that took effect last year, correctional facilities in Illinois can withhold certain physical mail and instead provide incarcerated individuals with scanned copies of their mail. Under Sims’ measure, incarcerated individuals could not be charged any fees for incoming mail nor would they be charged more than regular U.S. postal rates for mail delivery.
In response to the decision by Walgreens to close its store at 8628 S. Cottage Grove on June 4, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. is hosting a community meeting Saturday, May 9 to bring community members together to hear updates and share critical information for the store’s patients and customers.
“For decades, families have relied on this location not just for prescriptions, but for basic necessities, health access and a sense of neighborhood stability,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “This is an opportunity to sit down with Walgreens, ask questions and share how this closure impacts your family.”
The community meeting will be held Saturday, May 9 from 10:30 a.m. to noon at St. Mark United Methodist Church, located at 8441 S. St. Lawrence in Chicago. Sims will be joined by Cook County Commissioner Stanley Moore and members of the Walgreens corporate team to give community members the opportunity to ask questions and hear updates.
Residents should RSVP by filling out the form here. People with questions about the meeting should reach out to Sims’ office by emailing
Taking a step toward rectifying a serious flaw in the justice system, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. is leading a landmark measure to help exonerees rebuild financially and make a smoother transition back into their community.
“We must be vigilant in making sure the criminal justice system upholds fairness,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “That means acknowledging the life-changing pain caused by wrongful incarceration and supporting the individuals and families who have been affected by this grave injustice.”
State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. declared May 6, 2026 as Alpha Phi Alpha Day in recognition of the fraternity’s 120th year in service and its significant contributions in leadership, scholarship and community empowerment.
“For 120 years, Alpha Phi Alpha has played a fundamental role in uplifting communities and empowering the voiceless while translating the ideals of the fraternity into action for the communities we serve,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “I take pride in being a member of the first African-American fraternity for college educated men in the country – a legacy that will continue to foster excellence and service in our communities for years to come.”
Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for Black men, was founded Dec. 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. This December will mark its 120th anniversary. Since its inception, the fraternity has been dedicated to the principles of scholarship, manly deeds and love for all mankind, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals across the country.
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