10TH NEWS: CELEBRATING FREEDOM
As June comes to an end and attention turns to officially celebrating our nation’s 250th birthday, I want to wish everyone a Happy Independence Day holiday.
I recently read Walter Isaacson’s book, The Greatest Sentence Ever Written, about the first line of our Declaration of Independence: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
In the 250 years since this incredible document was penned, our country has been working to fulfill the promise of that simple sentence. We have made great strides across the generations, but we have also seen periods where the nation has slid backwards in its quest to form “a more perfect union.” My prayer for our country is that the celebrations of our semi quincentennial bring us together with a rededication to the vision of our Founders and the capacity to lift up our nation to truly be a shining light on the hill and a proud example to the rest of the world.
In other news, I want to extend a belated congratulations to the New York Knicks, and Stevenson High School’s own Jalen Brunson for winning the NBA Championship. He is a real hero making us all proud—not just for how he plays but for who he is! We are proud to claim Jalen as one of our own, and I know many across the district have enjoyed watching his success and the impact he continues to make in New York.
#WearingOrange for Gun Violence Awareness Month
June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month when we remember and honor the lives lost to gun violence and stand with survivors across the country.
This issue is deeply personal to me and to our community. Nearly four years after the Highland Park tragedy, I remain committed to advancing commonsense gun safety measures and building safer communities.
I was proud to once again co-sponsor the Wear Orange Resolution recognizing June as National Gun Violence Awareness Month and stood on the House steps with my Democratic colleagues in honor of Hadiya Pendelton and victims of gun violence across the country.
I am also proud to again introduce a resolution remembering the tragic attack in Highland Park four years ago. Whether murdered in a single shooting, like my uncle, or a mass shooting as in Highland Park, the loss of loved ones is forever an open wound that transforms families and entire communities. You can read the full resolution here.
HAPPENING IN WASHINGTON
Fostering the Next Generation of Illinois Leaders
It was great to stop by the Illinois Women in Leadership meet and greet on Capitol Hill! Illinois Women in Leadership empowers women across Illinois by fostering professionalism and developing future leaders through education, mentorship, networking, community involvement, and purposeful inclusion. I appreciated the opportunity to share insights from my time in Congress and meet the next generation of leaders in Illinois.
The Future of Pharmacy with Walgreens
I welcomed leaders from Walgreens, headquartered in my district, to discuss the future of pharmacy and the importance of strengthening access to care. I appreciated my conversation with Chief Pharmacy Officer Rick Gates, VP and Head of Pharmacy Enterprise and Practice John Colaizzi, and VP of Pharmacy Administration and Services Mike Umbleby. We discussed the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act, which I co-lead, and recently advanced through the House Committee on Ways and Means, to recognize pharmacists as essential frontline providers, creating a pathway for pharmacists to test, treat, and vaccinate against illnesses including the flu, RSV, strep throat, and COVID-19 in states where they are already licensed to provide these services.
Walgreens plays an important role in our local economy and in delivering care to families throughout the district. I appreciate their partnership and look forward to continuing our work to support patients, pharmacists, and access to healthcare.
Advancing Brain Disease Research with Lundbeck
I had a great meeting with Lundbeck’s SVP, Chief Commercial Officer, Shae Maughmer, and SVP of Corporate Affairs, Molly Poarch. Headquartered in the 10th, Lundbeck focuses on the development of neurological and psychiatric drugs. They provided updates on their neuro-rare disease portfolio, and we discussed the importance of investing in research and ensuring every patient has access to quality, affordable care in their community.
Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Democracy in Taiwan
This year marks both the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and the 30th anniversary of Taiwan’s first democratic presidential election. I was honored to join a reception welcoming the Honorable Han Kuo-yu, President of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan and his delegation to Washington as we celebrate these two historic milestones.
Launching The Abraham Accords Prosperity Group
I was honored to join and speak at the launch of the Abraham Accords Prosperity Group alongside leaders from both sides of the Atlantic. This initiative marks a long-term commitment to the future of the Middle East and to supporting young people and small businesses from the region working together across borders to bring about a more secure, peaceful, and prosperous future.
A big thank you to our host, Sir Liam Fox. His years as the United Kingdom's Defense Secretary and Trade Secretary gave him a front row seat to some of the world's toughest challenges. They also taught him something important: security and prosperity go hand in hand.
Championing the Benefits of Play
It is always a pleasure to welcome The Toy Association to my office. Their mission to champion the benefits of play, support advocacy, and inspire creativity is one that resonates deeply with me. We discussed how rising tariffs are increasing costs for toy manufacturers, retailers, and the families who purchase these products, creating additional challenges for businesses across the supply chain.
I appreciate their partnership and look forward to continuing our work together to support American businesses.
OUT AND ABOUT IN THE 10TH
Investing in Clean Energy
It was great to be with local leaders in Deerfield to celebrate the completed installation of a new solar array. This investment in clean energy honors a commitment to long-term sustainability while lowering overall costs. I will continue to support efforts that help build a cleaner future for communities across the 10th District!
Celebrating the Veteran’s Assistance Commission’s 100th Anniversary
I was glad to gather with veterans, friends, families, and leaders from across Lake County in Antioch to celebrate the Veteran’s Assistance Commission’s 100th anniversary. For a century they’ve worked to make sure we keep our promise to those who served. I am proud to have been a part of this celebration and was honored to present them with a Congressional Record Insert commemorating this milestone. Thank you for all you do for our veterans and congratulations on 100 years of service!
Rocking the Runway
Had a great time this weekend kicking off the Run the Runway 5K in Wheeling with friends at Chicago Executive Airport - running to celebrate the airport's 100th birthday. Great to see so many folks up and active!
Walking to Cure Scleroderma
This weekend, I attended the 24th Annual Walk to Cure Scleroderma with the Scleroderma Foundation of Greater Chicago. Patients, families, caregivers, and supporters came together to raise awareness and fund research for this rare autoimmune disease. I also had the chance to meet Carol Goldman, who shared the story of her sister, Barb, who lived with scleroderma. Following Barb's passing, this year's walk was dedicated to her memory. It was incredibly moving to meet so many people whose lives have been touched by scleroderma, whether they are living with the disease themselves or supporting a loved one. Their resilience, compassion, and commitment to one another was truly inspiring.
Staying up to Date with Winnetka Village President Bob Dearborn
Winnetka Village President Bob Dearborn and Village Manager Kristin Kazenas stopped by the office to share updates on Winnetka and discuss how we can work together to secure federal funding to support critical local projects like improvements to the Green Bay Trail and flood mitigation efforts. I’ll continue working with our local partners and leaders to deliver for our communities!
Supporting Military Kids with Kids Rank
Kids Rank is one of those organizations that truly makes a difference here in the 10th District and beyond. Their new statewide research and evaluation initiative focused on improving the well-being of military children across Illinois will help support military families throughout our state. It was great meeting with Kelcy Liverpool, Founder and Executive Director of Kids Rank, to discuss the launch of this two-year project, which complements their ongoing work in Great Lakes. I will continue to work with local organizations like Kids Rank to meet the unique needs of military children and families.
Making the Most of Summer with Dream Big
The Dream Big Youth Foundation in Waukegan is doing big things! From basketball and cooking to art and yoga, these students are getting a great opportunity to enrich their summer. Program founder Jonathan Jones’ dedication is reflected in both the program and the students. I look forward to continuing to see the Dream Big Youth Foundation grow.
Celebrating President Obama’s Enduring Legacy
It was a great privilege and honor to be present for the grand opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center on Chicago’s South Side. It was an incredibly inspiring program, and the remarks of both Michelle and President Obama were a much-needed reminder of who we truly are as a people, and what we can, and should, hope for our country in the future.
Joining the Obamas on stage were President and Secretary Clinton, President and First Lady Bush, and President and First Lady Biden. In the audience were fellow Representatives and Senators, former VP Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff, many state and local elected officials, world leaders and other dignitaries, countless celebrities, and a whole lot of folks who were part of the Obama story from the very beginning.
President Obama's leadership has left a lasting mark on our nation and on Chicago, inspiring hope even in challenging times. The Obama Presidential Center is a transformative cultural and educational investment in Chicago's South Side and stands as a powerful symbol of his enduring legacy.
Making my Theatre Debut
Proud to have made my debut theatre performance in Antioch with PM&L Theatre's production of Barefoot in the Park. Playing a role, even a small one, in PM&L's over 60 years of theatre productions was a lot of fun. Thank you to Managing Director Adam Armstrong, his team, and the cast for inviting me to be part of this great opportunity!
RESOURCES TO HELP YOU AND YOUR COMMUNITY
Please visit my website to find resources available for everything from saving money on your internet bill to locating your local food bank, and various help lines.
And, as always, I’m happy to meet constituents in my Lincolnshire office to share ideas, discuss legislation, or catch up on what’s happening in our community. If you want to schedule a meeting with me, you can do so here.
If you’re looking for ways to save money or access support services, my website offers a range of resources designed to help constituents navigate everyday challenges. So far this year, my office has helped constituents save $3,571,566, including $107,628 just this week alone through casework and assistance efforts.
One of the most meaningful parts of my work is helping constituents navigate challenges and find real solutions. We were especially grateful to hear from a constituent who wrote in to share how our casework team was able to help. Stories like this are a powerful reminder of why responsive, people-centered service matters.
NO-COST SUMMER MEALS FOR CHILDREN
No child should go hungry. In Congress, I was proud to help establish the Summer EBT program to ensure children can continue to receive nutritious food during summer break. In Illinois, eligible children can receive a $120 allowance for groceries and visit any meal pick-up sites in the area for healthy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack options. See more location information here.
Stay strong, stay safe, stay healthy.
Sincerely,
Bradley S. Schneider
Member of Congress