On Thursday, November 12, Faith in Place staff and volunteers joined health, clean energy, environmental, and business leaders across the state to deliver nearly 35,000 petitions to Governor Rauner. Our faith voices asking Governor Rauner to bring clean energy jobs to revitalize our communities were heard loud and clear!
We advocated for clean air and healthy communities at the two gatherings held simultaneously at the Thompson Center in Chicago and the State Capitol in Springfield.
Speakers at both events highlighted the message of the 35,000 petitions, urging Governor Rauner to support the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s historic Clean Power Plan, which reduces carbon pollution from power plants.
Under the Clean Power Plan, each state is responsible for creating an implementation plan that works for the state’s unique energy landscape. The Rauner Administration will soon need to demonstrate how Illinois is preparing to meet the Clean Power Plan goals.
The opportunity to prioritize renewable energy and efficiency investments in implementing the Clean Power Plan in Illinois is critical for our future.
The American Lung Association found recently found that more than 6.7 million Illinoisans breathe unhealthy air due to pollution. According to the Respiratory Health Association, death rates from asthma are particularly high for African Americans and Hispanics - three to six times higher than for Caucasians - and these deaths are concentrated in urban areas, including Chicago. It is clear that we need to take action to reduce air pollution for our neighbors and for future generations.
As Pastor Vance, Faith in Place’s Policy Director, said at the Chicago gathering: “The Clean Power Plan gives Illinois a tremendous opportunity to attract new clean energy jobs, cut dangerous pollution and provide real savings on electric bills for those who need it most.”
If you didn’t have an opportunity to fill out a petition for the delivery to Governor Rauner, no worries – there is still time to contact him today.
Check Out the Media Coverage:
Lee Enterprises State Wire: Clean energy advocates lobby Rauner
News Channel 20: Dozens Hold Clean Energy Rally at Capitol
Progress Illinois (IL) – Illinoisans Deliver Nearly 35,000 Petitions Backing Clean Power Plan To Rauner’s Office
The Southern Illinoisian, Springfield (IL) – Clean Energy Advocates Urge Rauner to go Against Coal